What steps should be taken before applying a pesticide near a water body?

• A. Check label buffer requirements only
• B. Avoid overspray near water only
• C. Use drift-reduction strategies only
• D. Check label buffer requirements, avoid overspray near water, use drift-reduction strategies, and consider weather conditions

Answer: (D)

When applying near a water body, protecting water quality requires several precautionary steps taken together. Start with the label’s buffer requirements, because these distances are specified to reduce the chance that pesticides reach water bodies. Next, avoid overspray near water, since droplets that land beyond the target area can contaminate streams, ponds, or ditches. Then use drift-reduction strategies to minimize how much product moves off-target through the air—this includes choosing appropriate nozzle types and settings, calibrating the sprayer, keeping the boom at an appropriate height, and using any drift-control practices recommended on the label. Finally, consider weather conditions, because wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, and the forecast affect drift and volatilization; applying under unsuitable conditions increases the risk of off-target movement and runoff. Taken together, these steps provide a comprehensive approach to protect water while meeting label requirements and applying the product effectively.