How may non-target plants and animals become exposed to pesticides?

Non-target plants and animals can become exposed to pesticides primarily through the mechanisms of drift, runoff, and residue. Drift occurs when pesticide particles are carried away from the target area by wind, potentially affecting nearby plants and animals that were not intended to be treated. Runoff refers to the movement of pesticides through water, often after rainfall or irrigation, which can wash pesticides into surrounding ecosystems, affecting organisms present in adjacent areas. Residue, the leftover pesticides that remain on surfaces after application, can also come into contact with non-target species, leading to exposure.

These pathways highlight the importance of careful application techniques and proper management practices to minimize unintended effects on the environment. The understanding of how pesticides move and behave in the ecosystem aids applicators in making informed decisions that protect non-target species.