What consideration is important when selecting a sprayer for use near sensitive environments?

When selecting a sprayer for use near sensitive environments, the potential for drift and application accuracy is a critical consideration. Drift refers to the unintended movement of pesticide spray away from the target area, which can lead to contamination of adjacent land or water sources that may impact sensitive ecosystems, such as water bodies, wildlife habitats, or residential areas. Ensuring that the application is accurate minimizes the risk of drift, as it ensures that pesticides are delivered precisely to the intended location without affecting surrounding areas.

Application accuracy also pertains to the calibration of the sprayer and the choice of nozzle types that are designed to reduce drift, such as low-drift nozzles. Factors such as wind speed, temperature, and humidity can influence drift, and a sprayer that offers precision in application helps to mitigate these environmental risks. Therefore, emphasizing drift potential and accuracy in selection will help protect sensitive environments while also ensuring effective pest management.