Why is it important to monitor humidity when planning aerial pesticide applications?

Monitoring humidity when planning aerial pesticide applications is crucial because it directly affects the effectiveness of the pesticide treatment. Humidity plays a significant role in the evaporation rate of the pesticides once they are applied.

When humidity levels are too low, pesticides can evaporate too quickly, which may lead to insufficient coverage on the target pests or crops. This can reduce the effectiveness of the application and potentially lead to pest resistance or the need for reapplication, which can increase costs and environmental impact. Conversely, high humidity can help maintain the integrity of the pesticide on the surfaces where it is applied, ensuring a more uniform and effective treatment.

Effective coverage is essential not only for the immediate success of the pesticide application but also for minimizing drift, maximizing the desired biological effect on target pests, and protecting non-target organisms. Hence, careful assessment of humidity levels is integral to achieving optimal application results.