Which of the following precautions should be taken to protect pollinators during herbicide applications?

Applying herbicides during times when pollinators are least active is important for minimizing their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Pollinators, such as bees, are usually less active during early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, or when it's windy or rainy. By timing applications to coincide with these periods, the likelihood of herbicides affecting this vital group of insects decreases significantly, which is crucial for preserving populations of pollinators that play a key role in agriculture through the pollination of crops.

Other strategies, such as using higher concentrations or applying during sunny weather, may not consider the well-being of pollinators and could inadvertently lead to higher exposure risks. Similarly, using any formulation without regard for toxicity disregards the potential negative effects on non-target organisms, including beneficial species like pollinators. Prioritizing timing based on pollinator activity is a proactive approach to responsible herbicide use in agricultural settings.