Identify one risk associated with the use of chemical pesticides.

Water contamination is a significant risk associated with the use of chemical pesticides. Pesticides can leach into water sources through runoff during rainstorms or through percolation into groundwater. This contamination can harm aquatic ecosystems, affect drinking water supplies, and disrupt the health of various organisms that rely on clean water. The chemicals can lead to biodiversity loss in aquatic habitats and pose health risks to humans and animals exposed to contaminated water.

In contrast, increased agricultural yields, improved soil health, and enhanced biodiversity are generally considered benefits of responsible pesticide use and integrated pest management strategies, rather than risks. These aspects can help support sustainable agricultural practices when managed properly, indicating that the focus on water contamination highlights a critical concern tied to the misuse or overuse of pesticides in agricultural systems.