To minimize pesticide runoff into water bodies, you should?

Using best management practices (BMPs) is crucial for minimizing pesticide runoff into water bodies. BMPs involve techniques and strategies designed to prevent contamination of water resources while ensuring effective pest management. These practices may include proper timing of pesticide application, selecting the right pesticide formulations, incorporating integrated pest management strategies, and maintaining vegetation buffers along waterways.

Implementing BMPs helps in managing the application of pesticides in a way that reduces the likelihood of runoff. For instance, applying pesticides at times when weather conditions are more stable and less likely to result in rain can reduce the risk of runoff, but it's not solely about timing; a comprehensive approach is needed for true effectiveness.

In contrast, applying pesticides before it rains can lead to increased chances of runoff. Increasing the amount of pesticide used doesn't correlate with improved efficacy and can heighten the risk of environmental damage. Ignoring buffer zones completely would eliminate a critical defense against water contamination, as these areas can act as filters for runoff before it enters water bodies.