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Farmers across South Dakota know anhydrous ammonia as an efficient and
widely used source of nitrogen fertilizer. Unfortunately, Meth cooks
view it as a key ingredient in their recipes for the drug.
Law enforcement is on the lookout for Meth cooks stealing anhydrous
ammonia and setting up shop on deserted roads or other rural areas. But,
producers can also take steps to stop theft and assist local authorities
in curbing Meth manufacturing.
To help thwart thieves targeting anhydrous ammonia, Dick Nicolai and Brad
Ruden from South Dakota State University suggest:
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Use locks
if possible, but be aware that locking a tank valve has proven to be a
less-than effective measure, since perpetrators break off the lock and/or
valve, which can result in significant environmental and repair problems.
Restricting access to a tank through the use of fencing and other physical
barriers can be an effective deterrent.
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Have tanks
delivered as close to the time of application as possible so that they are
not left unattended in fields.
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Position
tanks in open areas where they may be easily seen from roadways - putting
would-be thieves at a disadvantage.
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If there
will be a delay in using all the anhydrous in a nurse tank, return the
unused portions to the Ag dealer and order a different tank when
application can resume.
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If it can
be done safely, relieve pressure in the hose with a bleed valve when a
tank must be left in the field overnight. Producers may also consider
removing hoses for longer-term storage of partially filled tanks.
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Check tanks
at night and in the morning for any signs of tampering; also note whether
the level of anhydrous ammonia has changed.
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Watch for
vehicle tracks or footprints around the tank; note whether valves are not
closed tightly (a possible sign of tampering); and note whether hoses are
in a different position than when you left.
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Look for
suspicious items near the tank such as duct tape, garden hose, bicycle
inner tubes, buckets and coolers. Thieves will sometimes leave behind such
items if they are scared off.
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Place
brightly colored plastic wire ties or seals between the valve wheel and
the roll cage to facilitate quick visual checks. If the tie or seal has
been broken, it is likely that someone has tampered with your tank.
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All tanks
should be labeled with caution labels to warn other of the highly
hazardous nature of anhydrous ammonia.
Keep in mind; safety is the foremost concern when it comes to guarding
against Meth or its manufacturing.
The Meth cooking process produces highly toxic waste that is extremely
hazardous to both people and the environment. Practice extreme caution
when you come across anything you suspect might be related to a Meth lab,
and keep a close watch around your property and area for strange activity,
including:
- Vehicles parked in secluded areas.
- Activity on normally un-traveled roads.
- Activity around deserted farms or buildings.
- Watch ditches for Meth lab debris.
Do not approach possible Meth lab sites or people you suspect of using
Meth; do not touch any possible Meth lab debris.
If you suspect Meth
activity in your area, call your local law enforcement. |
For information on tank valve locks,
contact your local Ag Retailer or call Kathy Zander with the Agri-Business
Association in Pierre, SD at (605)224-2445
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