CPA Environmental Safety and Protection 2

Question 1

Which pesticide characteristic most strongly predicts its potential to leach into groundwater?

Accepted Answer

High persistence combined with high water solubility

Answer

Pesticides that are both persistent (resist breakdown) and highly water-soluble are most likely to move through soil and reach groundwater.

Question 2

A pesticide label states 'Do not apply within 50 feet of any body of water.' This buffer zone requirement is primarily intended to protect against:

Accepted Answer

Runoff and spray drift reaching aquatic ecosystems

Answer

Buffer zones near water bodies protect aquatic organisms from pesticide runoff and spray drift that can contaminate surface water.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of secondary poisoning from pesticide use?

Accepted Answer

A hawk dies after eating rodents that consumed rodenticide bait

Answer

Secondary (or relay) poisoning occurs when a predator or scavenger is harmed by consuming prey that has accumulated pesticide residues.

Question 4

The EPA's Endangered Species Protection Program restricts pesticide use in certain areas to protect listed species. Applicators can find which areas are restricted by consulting:

Accepted Answer

EPA Bulletins Live! Two, a web-based system

Answer

EPA Bulletins Live! Two provides county-level maps and bulletins identifying where pesticide use restrictions apply to protect endangered species.

Question 5

When is pesticide runoff into surface water most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Shortly after application during heavy rainfall on saturated or compacted soils

Answer

Heavy rainfall shortly after application combined with saturated or impervious soils prevents infiltration and promotes surface water runoff carrying pesticide residues.

(CPA) Certified Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

(CPA) Certified Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

CPA Environmental Safety and Protection 2