What is one of the best practices regarding pesticide application records?

Maintaining detailed calibration records is essential as part of best practices for pesticide application. Calibration records ensure that the equipment used for applying pesticides is functioning properly and delivering the correct amount of herbicide, insecticide, or fungicide as intended. Proper calibration guarantees effective pest control while minimizing the risk of overapplication, which can lead to environmental contamination and potential harm to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and nearby plants.

By keeping detailed calibration records, pesticide applicators can demonstrate compliance with regulations and can improve their application techniques over time based on past performance data. This practice also contributes to overall safety and effectiveness in pest management, as it allows operators to track changes or deviations in application rates and equipment performance.

Other practices such as keeping records for only one year, recording only during inspections, or storing records off-site do not support the comprehensive monitoring and accountability that detailed calibration records provide. These alternatives do not ensure the same level of insight into application accuracy and equipment maintenance.