To reduce pesticide run-off, farmers can employ the following methods:
i. Applying pesticides only when needed: By monitoring pest populations and using thresholds to determine when pests reach a level that requires control, farmers can avoid unnecessary pesticide applications. This approach minimizes the overall use of pesticides, reducing the risk of run-off into water sources.
ii. Using biological methods of pest control: Biological control involves using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage pest populations. This method is environmentally friendly and can help decrease reliance on chemical pesticides, thereby lowering the chances of pesticide run-off.
iii. Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM is a holistic approach that combines various pest control strategies, including cultural, biological, and chemical methods. By integrating these tactics, farmers can effectively manage pests while minimizing the impact on the environment. This comprehensive approach can significantly reduce the need for excessive pesticide use, thereby decreasing the risk of run-off.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Oi and iii only. These methods focus on targeted pesticide application, incorporation of natural pest control methods, and a comprehensive pest management approach to mitigate pesticide run-off effectively.
