Oklahoma Service Technician Practice Exam

What is the primary concern with pesticide drift?

1. It increases pest resistance

2. It may harm non-target organisms

3. It affects only the treated area

4. It improves application efficiency

The correct answer is: It may harm non-target organisms

The primary concern with pesticide drift is that it may harm non-target organisms. Pesticide drift occurs when pesticides are carried away from the intended application site by wind or other environmental factors. This unintended movement can lead to exposure of various non-target species, which can include beneficial insects, birds, aquatic life, and even nearby crops. The impact on these organisms can be detrimental, resulting in unintended ecological consequences, reduction in biodiversity, and contamination of food sources. In contrast, the other choices highlight aspects that are less relevant to the central issue of pesticide drift. For example, while increasing pest resistance can be a consequence of improper pesticide use, it is not directly linked to the concept of drift itself. Similarly, pesticide drift does not affect only the treated area, as its very nature implies that chemicals can spread beyond the intended application zone. Lastly, while application efficiency is important for pest management, drift does not improve it; rather, it poses risks that negate the benefits of precise application.