What can be a result of drift from improperly applied pesticides?

Drift from improperly applied pesticides can indeed lead to air contamination. This occurs when pesticide particles or droplets are carried away from the target area, often by wind, and become suspended in the air. Such contamination can pose serious risks to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, wildlife, and even humans, as these airborne chemicals can travel significant distances from the original application site.

Understanding drift is important in agricultural practices, as it highlights the need for proper application techniques and environmental considerations. In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the outcome of pesticide drift. For instance, increased crop yield and better water retention are generally associated with effective agricultural practices rather than the negative consequences of pesticide misapplication. Soil erosion, while a potential issue in agricultural lands, is not directly linked to pesticide drift specifically. Thus, the association of air contamination with drift is well-founded and underscores the importance of responsible pesticide use.