Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What should you do before applying pesticides to avoid waste?

1. Apply without measuring

2. Only use new pesticides

3. Calibrate your application equipment

4. Mix with other chemicals

The correct answer is: Calibrate your application equipment

Calibrating your application equipment before applying pesticides is crucial for several reasons. It ensures that the correct amount of pesticide is applied to the target area, minimizing waste and preventing over-application, which can lead to environmental harm and reduce the effectiveness of the pesticide. Calibration allows applicators to adjust their equipment to deliver the right spray volume, pressure, and droplet size, which are essential for effective pest management. Using measurement techniques during calibration helps to accurately align with the manufacturer's recommendations and ensures that the application matches the intended rate. This practice not only conserves pesticides but also saves money by preventing unnecessary purchases resulting from overuse. Additionally, proper calibration helps in maintaining compliance with regulations that often require precise application to protect public health and the environment. The other options are less favorable: applying without measuring can lead to excessive use and environmental damage, using only new pesticides does not guarantee accuracy in application, and mixing with other chemicals can increase the risks of incompatibility or chemical hazards without establishing whether it affects application efficiency.