I would like to correct some of the statements concerning herbicide use on campus in Michael Solem's Sept. 12 letter. Solem makes many assumptions that create a negative image of herbicides.

The two men were not "distributing in great abundance a chemical herbicide." Ninety-eight percent of what was coming out of the hose was water. The men were not wearing "thick white body suits." Their spraysuits were thin and lightweight. They prevent spray materials from being absorbed by the worker's normal clothing.

The most erroneous statement is that the animals near the treated areas will "suspect that something is terribly wrong when they begin to die." Herbicides are highly toxic to certain plants, not animals. Solem witnessed the application of chemicals less toxic than aspirin.

I am against harming the animals in any way but I also know that they won't be harmed by herbicides that are used properly. When applied according to the recommendations on the label, herbicides are safe and effective.