What is a common indicator of pesticide misuse?

A common indicator of pesticide misuse is unusual plant or animal damage beyond anticipated effects. This situation often arises when pesticides are used improperly, either through incorrect application rates, timing, or methods, leading to unintended harm to non-target organisms such as beneficial insects, wildlife, or even the crops being treated.

When pesticides are misapplied or overused, they can result in phytotoxicity, which manifests as plant damage including wilting, yellowing, or necrosis. Similarly, animal damage might occur due to runoff or drift, impacting local fauna and leading to unexpected mortality or behavioral changes.

In contrast, regular pest population decline and increased crop yields are typically positive results that suggest pesticide use is being managed effectively. While positive field trials can indicate pesticide efficacy, they do not directly correlate with misuse, as these trials often adhere to specific protocols that may not reflect real-world application scenarios. Thus, the occurrence of unusual damage serves as a key warning sign that highlights potential misuse in pesticide management practices.