Effects on Plants

• Pesticides, especially herbicides, can cause phytotoxicity or plant injury. Improper use of herbicides or excessive application, inadequate mixing and applying on hot and humid days are among the reasons why pesticides cause plant damage. Using pesticides according to their directions is imperative in reducing damage to beneficial plants.
  
  

Effects on Insects

• Pesticides can harm bees, wasps and other insects necessary for pollinating crops. This not only causes a reduction in helpful insects, but indirectly reduces crop yields. Pesticides that are harmful to pollinators will usually have specific warnings on their labels in the "Environmental Hazards" section of the directions. Apply pesticides that are less toxic to pollinators late in the day or at night, covering nearby beehives before using pesticides and waiting to apply them until after the plant's blooming period.
  
  

Effects on Fish

• Certain pesticides are harmful to fish. Indirect effects are depleting oxygen in water sources. Pesticides can enter water sources through accidental release, runoff, leaching from the soil and soil erosion. Reduce pesticide problems by choosing a pesticide that is less toxic for fish and carefully following the label's directions.
  
  

Effects on Birds and Other Wildlife

• Pesticides can kill birds when they mistake granules for food or eat seeds from plants that have been treated with pesticides. Pesticides cause indirect harm to birds when they eat treated crops, drink pesticide-contaminated water or feed on prey exposed to pesticides. Rodent poisons improperly placed or not retrieved quickly can also harm birds. Some pesticides have also been known to affect the ability of birds and other wildlife to reproduce. Using pesticides less harmful to wildlife and being cautious when placing bait outdoors can help reduce problems.
  
  

Effects on Humans

• Humans can be affected by pesticides by accidental swallowing, breathing pesticide fumes or simply through skin or eye contact. Those who use pesticides firsthand are at higher risk for developing pesticide-related problems. Some pesticides known as organophosphates can destroy important nervous system enzymes without causing symptoms first. The symptoms of pesticide poisoning may not arise until several hours after exposure and can range from mild headache, dizziness, fatigue and nausea to weakness or difficulty walking or speaking, difficulty breathing and unconsciousness. Follow pesticide instructions carefully and wear proper protective clothing such as gloves, facemasks or eye protection. Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms after using or having contact with pesticides.