What can happen if pesticide application equipment is not calibrated correctly?

If pesticide application equipment is not calibrated correctly, one significant consequence is the development of resistant pests. When equipment applies pesticides unevenly or at incorrect dosages, it can lead to suboptimal control of the target pest population. Some pests may survive the treatment due to insufficient exposure or dose, allowing them to reproduce and potentially pass on resistance traits to their offspring. Over time, this can result in a population of pests that are less susceptible or even resistant to the pesticide being used, making future control efforts more challenging and potentially leading to increased pest populations.

Calibrating pesticide application equipment ensures that the correct amount of pesticide is applied evenly across the target area, which is essential for effective pest management and minimizing the risk of resistance development. Proper calibration also helps to maintain safety standards and protect non-target species, making it a critical practice in pest control.