What are the potential environmental impacts of aerial application?

The correct answer highlights the various ways aerial application can affect the environment. When pesticides and other chemicals are applied from the air, there is a risk of unintended exposure to nearby water sources—such as lakes, rivers, and wells—which can lead to contamination. Furthermore, non-target species, including beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic life, may be adversely affected by the chemicals if they come into contact with them, either directly or through contaminated habitats. Additionally, these applications can influence broader ecosystems by disrupting local biodiversity and altering food webs.

Aerial application, while efficient for covering large areas quickly, does bring with it the responsibility to consider these environmental impacts. The other options, while they can be outcomes of agricultural practices, do not directly relate to the environmental risks posed by aerial application. Increased crop yields and improved soil health are benefits associated with effective agricultural practices but do not address the environmental consequences. Similarly, reduced drift of pesticides would be a positive outcome that could minimize some of the environmental risks, but it does not encompass the broader spectrum of potential negative impacts.