In aquatic weed control, what type of application involves handgun spraying of surface and emersed species?

Handgun spraying is specifically designed for the targeted application of pesticides to control aquatic weeds, particularly those that are surface-dwelling or emersed—meaning they grow partially in water and partially out. This method allows for precise control over the area being treated, ensuring that the herbicide is effectively applied only where needed, minimizing environmental impact and ensuring optimal efficiency.

Using handguns for spraying is advantageous because it permits the operator to adjust the pressure and volume of the application, which can be crucial when dealing with different types of plants or varying densities of weed infestations. Additionally, this method allows the operator to navigate tricky areas, such as the edges of bodies of water or around obstacles, which can make it a preferred choice when managing aquatic vegetation.

In contrast, aerial applications involve applying pesticides from an aircraft, which is less precise and better suited for large areas rather than specific target species. Bottom placement injection and subsurface injection are methods that involve injecting herbicides below the water surface, which is useful for certain types of aquatic weeds but does not apply to surface or emersed species treated via handgun spraying.