Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

What is a primary disadvantage of dust formulations?

1. Easily drift off target

2. Low drift hazard

3. Requires careful measuring

4. Complex application process

The correct answer is: Easily drift off target

A primary disadvantage of dust formulations is that they can easily drift off target when applied. Dust pesticides consist of fine particles that are light and can be carried by air currents, making it challenging to control their direction and placement during application. This drift can lead to unintended exposure of non-target plants, animals, or humans, as well as potential environmental contamination. In contrast, other formulations may allow for more targeted application, reducing the risk of drift. For example, granules are heavier and less likely to be carried away by wind. The potential for drift in dust formulations underscores the importance of ensuring that the application occurs under suitable weather conditions, such as low wind speeds, to mitigate the risk of off-target movement. While measuring and applying dust formulations may require attention to detail, and the complexity of the application process can vary, these factors do not pose as significant a risk as the issue of drift. Thus, the ability of dust formulations to easily drift off target stands out as a fundamental concern in their use.