Lateral movement of herbicides can be encouraged by which conditions?

• A. Steep slopes
• B. Soil compaction
• C. All of the above
• D. Saturated soil

Answer: (C)

Lateral movement happens when water moves herbicides away from where they were applied, carried by runoff or drainage. Steep slopes push water to flow rapidly downslope, so herbicide can be carried farther than intended. Soil compaction reduces pore space and infiltration, increasing surface runoff and creating pathways that move the chemical laterally. Saturated soil has limited capacity to absorb more water, so water and dissolved herbicide move more readily through the soil or across the surface. Because each of these conditions can promote movement, all of the above is the best answer.