Aerial spraying of any sort has become a "thing of the past" in Mendocino County. Control of woody broadleaved trees on private timber lands and aerial applications on pear orchards and vineyards have not occurred in many years. Twin Cities Aviation, out of Yuba City, was able to safely and efficiently "attack" problem areas of Yellow Star Thistle that are scattered on the UC-Hopland Research & Extension Center with a broadleaf-selective herbicide called "Milestone". Fifty acres was addressed in a two hour period using light loads (50 gallons of tank mix) and the "dexterity" of a small helicopter with an experienced pilot. Here you see the "tank mix rig" which allows the pilot to land the chopper on top of the trailer for ease of tank mixing. The operation was observed by the Mendocino County Agriculture Commissioner's representative.
