QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

Which practice is recommended to prevent water contamination by pesticides?

1. Use pesticides that are highly water soluble

2. Use terrace and conservation tillage practices

3. Clean sprayers near sinkholes

4. Apply pesticides only during rainfall

The correct answer is: Use terrace and conservation tillage practices

Using terrace and conservation tillage practices is recommended to prevent water contamination by pesticides as these methods help manage water runoff and soil erosion. Terracing involves creating stepped levels on slopes, which can slow down rainwater flow, reducing the likelihood of pesticide contamination entering nearby water bodies. Conservation tillage, which minimizes soil disturbance, enhances soil structure, preserves moisture, and promotes the growth of vegetation that can filter and absorb potential pollutants, further protecting water sources from pesticide runoff. The other options do not effectively safeguard water quality. Choosing pesticides that are highly water soluble can actually increase the risk of contamination because they are more likely to leach into water sources. Cleaning sprayers near sinkholes poses a significant danger, as it can directly introduce contaminants into groundwater systems. Applying pesticides only during rainfall is counterproductive since rainfall can wash away pesticides into nearby waterways, thus increasing the risk of contamination. Hence, terrace and conservation tillage practices stand out as a proactive approach to maintaining water quality in agricultural settings.