During aerial application, why is it important to monitor weather conditions?

Monitoring weather conditions during aerial application is crucial because adverse weather can greatly influence the efficacy of pesticides. Certain conditions—such as wind speed, temperature, humidity, and precipitation—can affect how the pesticide behaves once applied. For example, high winds can lead to drift, causing the pesticide to disperse away from the target area, which can diminish its effectiveness and potentially harm nontarget areas.

Moreover, applying pesticides during inappropriate weather conditions, such as imminent rain, can result in runoff, reducing the product's intended action and effectiveness. By ensuring that applications occur in optimal weather conditions, aerial applicators maximize the likelihood of achieving the desired pest control while also minimizing potential negative impacts on the environment and non-target organisms. This highlights the importance of being vigilant about the weather to ensure safe and effective application.