Which of the following is a common method to minimize pesticide drift?

Applying pesticides on calm days is a common method to minimize pesticide drift because calm weather conditions help reduce the movement of pesticide particles away from the targeted area. Wind can carry pesticide droplets away from their intended target, which not only compromises the effectiveness of the treatment but can also lead to unintended exposure to non-target plants, animals, and even humans. Therefore, choosing to apply pesticides on days with minimal or no wind is a practical approach to ensure that the application remains localized, enhancing both efficacy and safety.

In contrast, using high-pressure sprayers and increasing the application rate can lead to smaller droplet sizes, which are more susceptible to being carried off by the wind, potentially exacerbating drift issues. Spraying during windy conditions is counterproductive as the wind will disperse the chemicals beyond the intended area, increasing the likelihood of drift. Thus, applying on calm days is the most effective technique for minimizing pesticide drift.