What does "non-target impact" refer to in the context of herbicide use?

"Non-target impact" specifically refers to the unwanted effects on organisms that are not the intended targets of herbicide applications. When herbicides are used to control specific weed species, there is a risk that these chemicals may also affect beneficial plants, animals, or microorganisms in the surrounding area. Understanding non-target impacts is crucial because they can lead to a decrease in biodiversity, disrupt local ecosystems, and harm beneficial species that play important roles in agriculture, such as pollinators or natural pest controls.

For example, if a herbicide meant to control dandelions inadvertently affects a nearby clover plant, that would illustrate a non-target impact. Awareness of such impacts helps agricultural practitioners to choose herbicides more judiciously and implement practices that minimize harm to non-target species while still effectively managing weeds.