What two things should pesticide applicators be most aware of to avoid spray drift?

The correct answer focuses on droplet size and wind direction and speed as the two key factors pesticide applicators need to be most aware of to avoid spray drift.

Droplet size is crucial because the size of the pesticide droplets significantly impacts their behavior in the air after application. Smaller droplets are more prone to being carried away by the wind, leading to potential drift onto non-target areas, while larger droplets tend to settle more quickly and are less affected by air movement.

Wind direction and speed are equally important. Wind can carry droplets in unintended directions, increasing the risk of applying pesticides where they may cause harm or contamination. Understanding prevailing wind conditions before and during application helps ensure that the pesticide reaches the intended target without affecting surrounding environments.

In summary, by paying attention to droplet size and local wind conditions, applicators can significantly reduce the risk of pesticide drift and ensure safer and more effective applications.