Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

What application factors influence pesticide drift?

1. Temperature and humidity

2. Soil type and moisture

3. Droplet size and height of release

4. Wind speed and distance traveled

The correct answer is: Droplet size and height of release

Pesticide drift refers to the movement of pesticide active ingredients away from the intended target area during or after application. It is crucial to understand which factors most influence this phenomenon to minimize its impact on non-target areas and the environment. Droplet size and height of release are primary factors influencing pesticide drift. Smaller droplets are more susceptible to being carried away by air currents, which increases the likelihood of drift. Similarly, the height at which the pesticide is released can affect its susceptibility to wind and atmospheric conditions; higher releases can allow greater wind influence on the particles, leading to increased drift potential. Understanding these factors is essential for applicators to make informed decisions about how to configure their application equipment and practices in order to mitigate drift, ensure effective pest control, and protect the surrounding environment and non-target species.