Georgia Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

True or False: Residue can persist in the environment after pesticide application.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the pesticide used

4. Only for certain types of pesticides

The correct answer is: True

The statement is true because pesticide residues can indeed persist in the environment after application. Various factors contribute to the duration of this persistence, including the chemical properties of the pesticide, environmental conditions such as soil type, temperature, moisture, and microbial activity, as well as the manner in which the pesticide was applied. When pesticides are used, their active ingredients can remain in the soil, water, or on plant surfaces for extended periods. This persistence can impact non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, plants, and aquatic environments. Understanding the potential for residue persistence is crucial for applicators to manage risks and adhere to safety and regulatory guidelines. While it is true that some pesticides may degrade more quickly than others, and specific environmental conditions play a significant role in how long residues remain, the fundamental principle remains that pesticide residues can and often do persist in the environment following application.