Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which sprayer type poses a higher risk of injuring sensitive vegetation or wildlife due to overdosing with concentrated pesticides?

1. Low-pressure sprayer

2. High-pressure sprayer

3. Ultra-low volume sprayer

4. Hand-operated sprayer

The correct answer is: Ultra-low volume sprayer

The ultra-low volume (ULV) sprayer is designed to apply very small volumes of pesticide while maximizing coverage and efficiency. Because these sprayers deliver pesticides in such concentrated amounts, there is a significant risk of overdosing, especially if not used carefully. This concentrated application can lead to unintended consequences such as damage to sensitive vegetation or harm to wildlife in the treated area. In contrast, other types of sprayers like low-pressure and high-pressure sprayers tend to use larger volumes of diluted pesticide mixtures, which typically helps reduce the risk of overdosing. Hand-operated sprayers also allow for more controlled application and smaller treatment areas, helping to minimize potential overspray or drift that could affect nearby sensitive plants or animal habitats. Thus, the specific design and method of delivering pesticides through ultra-low volume spraying heighten the risk of harming nearby sensitive environments.