Why can drift mitigation permits be issued?

Drift mitigation permits are issued when the commissioner determines that an undue hazard exists. This process involves assessing the potential risks associated with pesticide applications, particularly in regard to their drift into areas where they could cause harm to non-target organisms, including human populations or beneficial wildlife. The essence of these permits is to ensure that necessary precautions are taken to mitigate those risks, thereby permitting agricultural practices while safeguarding public health and the environment.

The issuance of these permits reflects a regulatory approach to balance agricultural needs with safety considerations, ensuring that areas deemed to be at risk are adequately protected. This is integral to the enforcement of safe pesticide use and adherence to environmental protection standards. By focusing on the determination of an undue hazard, the regulatory framework is able to adapt to specific circumstances and issues that may arise from pesticide drift, ensuring that the permits serve a critical function in managing potential risks.