Pesticide Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Small-Scale Hmong Farmers in the San Joaquin Valley of California

A survey was conducted to assess the pesticide knowledge, attitudes, and practices of small-scale Hmong farmers in the Fresno area of the San Joaquin Valley of California. Hmong farmers in this region were found to cultivate 35 crops, most of which were Asian specialty crops with economic significance. The majority of farmers used pesticides on their farms, primarily to control diseases and insects. Long beans and sweet peas were perceived to require more pesticides than other crops. Participants were aware of pesticide-related health risks, yet 71% had no formal education. Most participants used proper personal protection equipment (PPE) and followed safe application practices, yet 84% reported that they wear work clothing from the farm into their home, which could contribute to the take home pesticide exposure pathway. Seventy-five percent of participants were not familiar with the concept of integrated pest management (IPM) as a formal pest management practice; however, many participants were using some components of IPM such as crop rotation. Nearly all participants (96%) requested more pesticide safety training be made available in Hmong. This study contributes to the understanding of potential pesticide exposure and health risks of Hmong farmers in the San Joaquin Valley of California, and the need for additional pest management training for the community.