Wisconsin Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

What is a major concern of drift?

1. 1. Cost of chemicals

2. 2. Off target damage to vegetation and people

3. 3. Difficulty in application

4. 4. Storage of pesticides

The correct answer is: 2. Off target damage to vegetation and people

Drift is a significant issue in pesticide application primarily because it can lead to off-target damage to vegetation and people. When pesticides do not hit their intended target, they can affect surrounding non-target plants, potentially causing harm to those plants, which may be important for the environment or agriculture. For example, if a pesticide intended for crops drifts onto nearby gardens or native plant areas, it can lead to damage or even the death of those plants. Moreover, drift can pose health risks to people, including farm workers, by unintentionally exposing them to harmful chemicals. This can result in acute or chronic health issues depending on the type and amount of pesticide that drifts onto an unintended area. The consequences of drift highlight the importance of following best practices in pesticide application to minimize any unintended effects on the surrounding ecosystem and public health. Other concerns, such as the cost of chemicals, difficulty in application, and storage of pesticides, while relevant to the overall management and use of pesticides, do not directly pertain to the specific environmental and health impacts that drift causes. Thus, off-target damage is the primary concern when considering the implications of pesticide drift.