How should you handle buffer zones around water bodies or sensitive areas?

• A. Maintain the buffer distances specified on the label to protect water and non-target organisms; adjust drift control measures near these areas.
• B. Remove buffer zones to speed application.
• C. Use larger droplets and apply at higher wind speeds to avoid zones.
• D. Only consider buffer zones when measuring pesticide concentration.

Answer: (A)

Buffer zones protect water bodies and sensitive areas by limiting pesticide drift and exposure. You should always keep the distances shown on the label around water bodies or other sensitive sites and adjust drift-control measures as you apply near those zones. This means using drift-reducing practices such as appropriate nozzle selection and droplet size, controlling boom height, and timing or modifying the application if needed to stay within the buffer. Removing buffer zones or trying to bypass them with larger droplets or higher wind speeds increases drift risk and can violate the label. Buffer zones are a protective requirement, not something to consider only when measuring concentration.