What is a recommended practice to avoid pesticide drift?

Spraying when wind direction and speed are appropriate is essential to minimize pesticide drift, which can occur when products are carried off-target by the wind. Knowledge of wind conditions helps applicators ensure that the pesticide is being applied in the right direction and at a speed that reduces the chances of drift irritating neighboring areas or impacting non-target species. Proper timing of pesticide applications based on wind conditions significantly contributes to effective pest management while adhering to safety regulations and protecting the environment.

In contrast, spraying during foggy conditions may result in unintended deposition of pesticides on undesired surfaces due to reduced visibility and potential moisture influencing the application. Using smaller droplets might seem beneficial for coverage but can increase the likelihood of drift, as smaller droplets are more susceptible to being carried away by the wind. Ignoring atmospheric inversions is dangerous because such conditions can trap pesticides close to the ground level and contribute to increased drift, as low-level air may not move normally, leading to unintended pesticide concentration in sensitive areas.