What are the two types of pesticide drift?

The concept of pesticide drift is essential to understand because it describes how pesticides can unintentionally move away from the intended application area, potentially affecting non-target plants, animals, and even people. The two recognized types of pesticide drift are vapor drift and spray or dust particle drift.

Vapor drift refers to the gaseous movement of pesticide formulations after they have been applied. Certain pesticides can volatilize, meaning they can convert from liquid to gas forms and travel through the air, sometimes over large distances. This is particularly relevant for specific types of herbicides and fungicides.

Spray or dust particle drift occurs when small particles of pesticide or droplets created during application are carried away by wind. The size of the spray droplets and the environmental conditions, such as wind speed, can significantly influence the distance these particles travel from where they were applied.

Understanding these two types of drift is crucial for formulators and applicators to minimize negative impacts on neighboring ecosystems and ensure compliance with safety regulations. By identifying both vapor and particle drift, professionals can take appropriate measures during application to reduce the likelihood of unintended consequences from pesticide use.