Which of these statements is true about safe pesticide application practices?

Monitoring application for drift is essential for safe pesticide practices because it helps minimize unintended exposure to non-target areas, including nearby crops, wildlife, and people. When pesticides are applied, especially as sprays, environmental factors like wind can cause droplets to move away from the intended target area. By actively monitoring for drift, applicators can adjust their techniques—such as changing application speed, droplet size, or timing—to reduce the risk of drift, ensuring both efficacy and safety.

In contrast, applying pesticides during high wind conditions is risky, as it greatly increases the likelihood of drift. Protective equipment is not optional but rather a fundamental requirement to protect the applicator’s health and safety. Mixing pesticides should be done according to specific guidelines and label instructions, not freely, to prevent chemical incompatibilities and potential hazards.