What is the primary purpose of calibrating equipment in pesticide application?

The primary purpose of calibrating equipment in pesticide application is to correct application rates. Accurate calibration ensures that the pesticide is applied at the correct rate, which is crucial for effective pest management and environmental safety. If the application rate is too low, it may not effectively control the target pests, leading to inadequate pest management. Conversely, if the rate is too high, it can increase the risk of pesticide runoff and harm non-target organisms or lead to potential health hazards. Hence, proper calibration of equipment allows operators to deliver pesticides in a precise manner, ensuring both effectiveness and compliance with regulatory guidelines.