New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) Pesticide Practice Exam

Controlling pesticide drift is crucial primarily because it helps prevent harm to non-target areas and organisms. Pesticide drift occurs when particles of pesticide become airborne and travel away from the intended application site. This unintended dispersal can damage surrounding crops, harm wildlife, and even impact human health if it enters residential areas or water sources.

Effective control of pesticide drift ensures that the application remains focused on the intended target, minimizing adverse effects on the environment. For instance, preventing drift protects beneficial insects like bees and other pollinators that might be nearby, as well as non-target plants and aquatic ecosystems.

Addressing the other options, increasing pesticide usage is not a goal of controlling drift; in fact, controlling drift may lead to more efficient use by ensuring that more of the pesticide reaches its intended destination. Ensuring effective application is part of the outcome of controlling drift, but it does not capture the primary importance centered around minimizing harm. Complying with manufacturer recommendations can be a significant aspect of minimizing drift, yet it is ultimately about protecting non-target organisms that underscores the necessity of controlling drift effectively.