What are some adverse effects of pesticide misuse?

• A. Damage to desirable trees, unwanted changes in wildlife habitat and direct poisoning of non target organisms
• B. Increased crop yields
• C. Improved soil structure
• D. Enhanced beneficial insect populations

Answer: (A)

Pesticide misuse can cause real harm to the environment and non-target organisms. When products are applied incorrectly—using the wrong rate, at the wrong time, or near sensitive plants or habitats—drift or runoff can damage desirable trees and plants, alter wildlife habitats, and expose or poison organisms that were not the target of the treatment. Non-target species such as pollinators, beneficial insects, aquatic life, birds, and other wildlife can be harmed directly or through contaminated food and water, and residues can disrupt soil biology and ecosystem balance.

The other choices describe outcomes that are not adverse effects: increased crop yields, improved soil structure, and enhanced beneficial insect populations would be positive or neutral effects, not harms resulting from misuse.