Drift is undesirable for economic, environmental and safety reasons. Efficient applicators don't spend money for pesticides to watch them drift away from their target fields. Today's chemicals are more potent and require more precise application. Unsatisfactory pest control could result if a significant portion of the chemical is lost in drift. This could require respraying the same field. You may even find yourself in court if spray drift damages sensitive crops in a neighbor's field.
The environmental effects of spray drift are equally costly and unacceptable. By reducing drift to a minimum, you can reduce the potential for pollution of streams, lakes and other water supplies that could endanger fish and wildlife.
Regardless of how accurately an application is made, the possibility of drift is always present. You can minimize this possibility by selecting the right equipment and using sound judgment when applying pesticides. Your judgment can mean the difference between an efficient, economical application or one that results in drift, damaging non-target crops and creating environmental pollution.
Reducing spray drift not only improves application efficiency, but also reduces the risk of safety and health-related problems caused by drift. Because it is impossible to eliminate drift altogether, always wear protective clothing when applying pesticides. A respirator is a must, especially if your tractor does not have a cab.
If you have any doubts about a spraying job that might result in drift, wait until you no longer have that element of doubt. Your goal should be to eliminate off-target movement of pesticides, no matter how small it may be.