What environmental factors should be considered before aerial application?

Considering weather conditions such as wind, temperature, and humidity is crucial before conducting aerial applications. These environmental factors directly impact the effectiveness and safety of pesticide application. For instance, wind can cause drift, leading to the unintended application of chemicals onto non-target areas, which may jeopardize neighboring crops, wildlife, and water sources. High temperatures and low humidity can increase evaporation rates, reducing the amount of pesticide that reaches the target area, thus diminishing efficacy and potentially causing harm due to higher concentrations of chemicals being released into the atmosphere.

By carefully monitoring and evaluating these weather conditions prior to aerial application, operators can enhance application effectiveness while minimizing risks to the environment and surrounding ecosystems. Properly considering these elements supports sustainable agricultural practices and compliance with regulatory standards.