If an apartment complex is located 120 ft from a field edge, should the pilot comply with an in-field no-spray buffer zone?

The requirement for a no-spray buffer zone is crucial for minimizing the risk of pesticide drift, which can have harmful effects on nearby residential areas, including an apartment complex. In this case, because the apartment complex is located 120 feet from the field edge, the pilot must adhere to a designated buffer zone to ensure that the application of pesticides does not affect residents.

Leaving an extra 30-foot buffer is prudent because it adds an additional layer of protection against drift, accounting for any unexpected changes in wind direction or speed that could carry pesticide particles beyond the intended application area. This approach is in line with best practices for aerial application, which prioritize safety for both the environment and nearby populations.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately address safety concerns or regulatory expectations regarding buffer distances. Options suggesting that no buffer is required or conditioning compliance on factors like wind or time of day may overlook the potential for pesticide drift, which is a critical consideration in aerial applications. Therefore, leaving an additional 30-foot buffer zone is the most responsible action to take in this situation.