What role do buffer zones play in pesticide application?

Buffer zones are critical areas that help minimize the potential negative impacts of pesticide application on surrounding environments. By maintaining a buffer zone, applicators create a physical space that acts as a barrier between the treated area and sensitive locations such as water bodies, wildlife habitats, or residential areas. This zone serves two main purposes: it prevents pesticide drift, where small particles are carried away by wind, and it reduces the risk of runoff, which can occur when rain or irrigation washes pesticides away from the target application area into surrounding ecosystems. Implementing buffer zones is a best management practice that can contribute significantly to environmental protection and public health safety during pesticide use.