Illinois Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

What is an example of a surface-water advisory?

1. Using a high pressure sprayer

2. Allowing a 66-foot buffer area between application area and water sources

3. Conducting applications during heavy rainfall

4. Applying pesticides at night

The correct answer is: Allowing a 66-foot buffer area between application area and water sources

A surface-water advisory is an important regulatory or recommended practice designed to protect water bodies from contamination during pesticide applications. A buffer area, such as a 66-foot separation between the application zone and water sources, serves as a safeguard to minimize the risk of pesticide runoff into nearby lakes, rivers, or streams. This distance helps to ensure that any potential drift or accidental overspray does not reach the water, thereby preserving aquatic ecosystems and maintaining water quality. In contrast, using a high-pressure sprayer may increase the likelihood of pesticide drift, while conducting applications during heavy rainfall raises concerns about runoff, which can lead to pollution of surface waters. Applying pesticides at night, although it may mitigate some drift concerns due to lower wind speeds, does not specifically address the risk of contamination of nearby water bodies. Therefore, maintaining a buffer area is a proactive and effective method for protecting surface water during pesticide applications.