What is the primary goal of pesticide calibration?

The primary goal of pesticide calibration is to ensure accurate application rates. Calibration is the process of adjusting and testing equipment to deliver the correct amount of pesticide per unit area. This accuracy is crucial because applying the correct dosage affects the effectiveness of the pesticide in controlling pests while also minimizing potential harm to non-target organisms, the environment, and human health.

Correct calibration helps avoid issues related to under-application, which may result in ineffective pest control, or over-application, which can cause environmental contamination and increase costs. By focusing on the precise delivery of the pesticide, applicators can manage their resources more efficiently and contribute to safer agricultural practices.

While aspects such as minimizing equipment wear, optimizing field layout, and speeding up the pesticide application process may be important considerations in the broader context of pesticide application, they do not constitute the main objective of calibration itself.