Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which site characteristic increases the potential for soil and water pollution by a pesticide?

1. Low erosion

2. High erosion

3. High organic matter

4. Flat terrain

The correct answer is: High erosion

The potential for soil and water pollution by a pesticide is significantly influenced by erosion characteristics of the site. High erosion indicates that soil is more prone to being displaced by water or wind, which can lead to the movement of pesticide residues from the treated area into nearby water bodies or other areas of the landscape. When soil erosion occurs, not only is the topsoil removed, which may contain vital nutrients and organic matter, but it can also carry with it any pesticides that have been applied to the surface. This movement can contaminate local water supplies and harm aquatic ecosystems, as pesticides can carry with them harmful chemicals that adversely affect both water quality and aquatic life. In contrast, low erosion scenarios suggest that soil is more stable and less likely to wash away, thereby reducing the risk of pesticide runoff and potential pollution. Other factors, such as high organic matter and flat terrain, may also influence pollutant behavior but are not as directly related to the process of erosion and the subsequent dispersal of pesticides.