What is one method for protecting the environment when using pesticides, as established by Regulation 637?

Proper mixing and containment is a key method for protecting the environment when using pesticides, as established by Regulation 637. This practice ensures that pesticides are prepared and handled in a way that minimizes the risk of spills or leaks that could lead to contamination of soil, water sources, and non-target organisms. By using appropriate containment measures during the mixing process, applicators can prevent accidental releases into the environment, thereby safeguarding ecosystems and reducing the likelihood of harmful effects on wildlife and human health.

Other practices, while they may have some relevance, do not specifically target environmental protection in the comprehensive manner that proper mixing and containment does. For example, applying pesticides only in dry weather may reduce runoff but does not address how pesticides are mixed or contained. Limiting use to weekends does not inherently protect the environment since the application methods and containment strategies are not accounted for. Similarly, only applying pesticides on farmland does not ensure they are used responsibly; it overlooks the importance of how they are handled before and during application.