What protective measures should be taken to prevent pesticide runoff?

Choosing to implement practices that manage water flow and utilize buffer zones is essential in preventing pesticide runoff. This involves creating physical barriers, such as strips of vegetation or designated areas, which can absorb excess water and intercept chemicals before they enter waterways. Additionally, managing drainage patterns helps to control the movement of water that could transport pesticides off-target, thereby reducing the likelihood of environmental contamination.

The other options do not effectively address the issue of runoff. Bright-colored markers may aid in identifying treated areas but do not contribute to mitigating runoff. Frequent application of pesticides in larger quantities can exacerbate the risk of runoff, as it increases the volume of chemicals that may enter water systems. Performing applications only at night may reduce some exposure risks but does not inherently prevent runoff if proper water management practices are not in place.