What is one potential environmental consequence of pesticide runoff?

One significant environmental consequence of pesticide runoff is the contamination of water sources. When pesticides are applied to agricultural fields, especially during rainfall or irrigation, they can be washed off the soil and enter nearby streams, rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This can lead to serious ecological impacts, as the chemicals can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and pose risks to human health through contaminated drinking water. Additionally, pesticide runoff can contribute to problems like eutrophication, where nutrient pollution leads to excessive growth of algae, further degrading water quality. This highlights the importance of careful pesticide management and implementing practices to minimize runoff and protect water resources.