Movement of a pesticide into the air away from the target area is usually called?

• A. Runoff
• B. Accumulation
• C. Drift
• D. Leaching

Answer: (C)

Drift is the movement of pesticide through the air away from the target area. It happens when droplets are carried by wind during or after application, especially if the droplets are very fine, the spray is too high, or weather conditions favor movement (like gusty winds or temperature inversions). This off-target movement can affect nearby crops, non-target plants, and water sources. To reduce drift, use appropriate droplet sizes (often larger droplets), select suitable nozzles, keep the spray boom at the recommended height, and avoid spraying under windy or unstable atmospheric conditions. Understanding drift helps protect non-target organisms and nearby environments while ensuring the chemical stays where it’s intended.