Which statement about wind speed and drift risk is correct?

• A. Higher wind speeds increase drift risk
• B. Lower wind speeds increase drift risk
• C. Wind speed has no effect on drift
• D. Drift is determined by droplet size only

Answer: (C)

Wind speed directly influences how far spray droplets travel and how much drift occurs. When wind is stronger, droplets are carried farther downwind before they settle, increasing the chance that off-target areas get sprayed or contaminated. This effect is especially true for smaller droplets, which are lighter and stay airborne longer, making them more susceptible to wind. Droplet size matters, but wind speed sets the real extent of drift: calm conditions minimize drift, while higher winds raise the drift risk. In practice, avoid spraying in windy conditions and adjust droplet size and application technique to reduce drift.