What is "pesticide drift"?

"Pesticide drift" refers specifically to the movement of pesticides away from the intended application site, which can occur during or shortly after the application process. This unintended dispersal can happen via wind, spray, or vaporization and often results in the pesticide affecting non-target areas, potentially impacting nearby crops, wildlife, or even human populations.

Understanding pesticide drift is crucial for applicators, as it emphasizes the importance of following best practices during pesticide application to minimize any unintended environmental or public health consequences. Proper management techniques, such as choosing suitable application methods and timing, are essential to mitigate drift and ensure that pesticides are only affecting the areas they are intended to treat.