Why is spray drift a significant concern during herbicide application?

Spray drift is a significant concern during herbicide application because it can lead to the contamination of non-target areas. When herbicides are applied, they can easily be carried by the wind, resulting in unintended exposure to nearby plants, crops, or even waterways. This not only affects the health of these non-target plants but can also lead to environmental damage and potentially harm beneficial insects or wildlife. Moreover, contamination can have legal implications for the applicator if crops or land are damaged or if water sources are polluted. Therefore, understanding and mitigating spray drift is crucial in ensuring that herbicides are applied effectively while minimizing unintended consequences on the surrounding ecosystem.