Who enforces buffer zone compliance around wells or surface water when required by labels?

• A. Regulatory agencies
• B. The applicator
• C. Local farmers
• D. Pest control operators

Answer: (A)

Buffer zones around wells and surface water are required by pesticide labels to prevent drift and protect water resources. Enforcement of these buffer requirements is carried out by regulatory agencies that have authority over pesticide use. State departments of agriculture and environmental protection agencies, along with the EPA for federal labels, oversee inspections, verify compliance with label directions, and impose penalties or corrective actions for violations. The applicator must follow the label, but the power to enforce and sanction lies with these regulatory bodies, not individual applicators or other groups like local farmers or pest control operators.