Which term describes the unintended impact of herbicides on non-target species?

The term "drift" specifically refers to the unintentional movement of herbicides or other chemicals away from the target area, often through wind or other environmental factors. This phenomenon can lead to herbicides affecting non-target species, such as nearby crops, plants, or wildlife. Understanding drift is crucial for agricultural practices because it highlights the importance of applying herbicides under conditions that minimize off-target movement, thereby protecting surrounding ecosystems.

While contamination generally relates to the presence of harmful substances in areas they're not meant to be, it does not specifically pertain to the action of an herbicide moving from one place to another. Accidental poisoning usually refers to the unintended harm to living organisms, often due to misuse or malfunctions, while environmental hazard is a broader term that encompasses various risks to the environment and may not directly indicate the herbicide's movement or its effects on non-target species. Hence, drift is the most precise term that captures the unintended impact mechanism associated with herbicide application in this context.