In addition to external factors, what greatly affects off-target drift?

The size of the spray droplets is a significant factor impacting off-target drift because smaller droplets are more susceptible to being carried away by wind currents. When droplets are smaller, they have a larger surface area-to-volume ratio, making them lighter in comparison to larger droplets. Consequently, these smaller droplets can easily be airborne and dispersed farther distances from the intended application area, which can lead to unintentional exposure of non-target vegetation or areas. This relationship emphasizes the importance of managing droplet size for effective aerial application and minimizing drift.

While other factors such as temperature, wind direction, and equipment used do play a role in drift, they influence drift dynamics rather than being the primary determinant of how far and how effectively drift occurs in relation to droplet size. It is crucial for aerial applicators to consider droplet size when planning their applications to enhance efficacy and reduce the risk of drift-related issues.