MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which of the following is a way that pesticides can move off-site?

1. Adhering to clothing

2. Decomposing in the soil

3. Evaporating into the atmosphere

4. Decomposing at the application site

The correct answer is: Adhering to clothing

Pesticides can indeed move off-site by adhering to clothing. When applicators or field workers come in contact with treated areas, particles of the pesticide can stick to their clothing. This can lead to the accidental transport of pesticide residues to other areas, such as homes or other agricultural fields, where it can pose risks to non-target organisms and contaminate additional environments. The other options focus on processes that do not directly facilitate the off-site movement of pesticides in the same manner. Decomposing in the soil or at the application site indicates that the pesticide is breaking down but does not imply that it is moving away from the site. Evaporating into the atmosphere can sometimes lead to off-site movement, but this process is more nuanced and depends on the volatility of the pesticide involved. Thus, while evaporation can contribute to pesticide dispersal, adhering to clothing more clearly illustrates a tangible and immediate means of off-site pesticide transfer.