ANHYDROUS AMMONIA AND CRYSTAL METH

Many farmers may be unaware that anhydrous ammonia is used in the
production of crystal meth which is an illegal, highly addictive and
dangerous drug. Thefts of anhydrous ammonia from farms and fertilizer
dealerships are on the rise in Western Canada. Drug dealers only need
small amounts of anhydrous ammonia to make crystal meth. Unsecured or
unattended farm supplies are an easy target for such dealers. Thieves
bleed off the fertilizer into empty barbecue propane tanks or other
storage devices. It is unlikely a farmer or fertilizer dealer would
be able to see the difference in the gauge on the tank because such
small amounts are stolen but there are several things you can do to
help prevent theft of this fertilizer for use in illegal drugs.

- - position tanks in secluded areas, out of sight from roads to
discourage accidental discovery by thieves

- - OR keep tanks in your yard to discourage theft

- - try to have tanks delivered as close to the time of application as
possible to shorten the time they are left unattended in fields

- - return tanks to the dealer soon after use

- - if there will be a delay in using all the contents of a tank,
consider returning to the dealer or keep it in your yard until you
start using the tank again

- - inspect the condition of nurse tanks upon delivery, after use, and
when you return them to the fertilizer dealer

- - check tanks every morning for signs of tampering

- - use brightly colored plastic wire ties or seals between the valve
handle and roll cage to help with quick visual checks for broken ties
or plastic valve covers could be secured with ties and visually
checked to see if they are broken

Signs of theft include: partially opened or leaking tank valves;
vehicle tracks or footprints in the soil or snow, disturbed ground
near tanks; a circular mark in the soil or snow from a barbecue tank
used to steal some anhydrous ammonia; and any other items left behind
such as duct tape, garden hoses, bicycle inner tubes, etc.

If you suspect tampering with a tank, leave the area undisturbed.
Contact the dealer to confirm delivery amount or items that may have
been left behind. Contact the RCMP if you suspect theft. Stay away
from suspicious people to avoid confronting thieves who may become
violent. Always approach a tank from an upwind position. Avoid
handling any empty storage containers that may have been used by
thieves such as barbecue tanks. The copper or galvanized valve
fittings can be affected and fail to contain anhydrous ammonia.

Your local anhydrous ammonia dealer and GO office have brochures
outlining the above information.