Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is a key benefit of calibrating equipment when applying pesticides?

1. Reduces time spent on application

2. Ensures effective pest control with minimal waste

3. Decreases the cost of pesticides

4. Increases the amount of pesticide used

The correct answer is: Ensures effective pest control with minimal waste

Calibrating equipment when applying pesticides is crucial for ensuring effective pest control with minimal waste. Proper calibration allows applicators to accurately measure and apply the correct amount of pesticide, which aligns with the label recommendations. This ensures that the pesticide is effective in controlling the targeted pests, as both under-application and over-application can lead to poor pest management outcomes. Under-applying may not sufficiently control pests, while over-applying can lead to waste, increased costs, and potential environmental harm. By calibrating the equipment, you also help to minimize the potential for pesticide runoff, which is important for both environmental safety and compliance with regulations. As a result, calibration not only optimizes pest control but also contributes to responsible pesticide use, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and effectively.