What happens to organophosphates when they enter the environment?
• Because organophosphates are often sprayed on crops and plants, small particles of the chemical may be carried away from the field or yard before falling to the ground. • After organophosphates are applied, they may be present in the soil, surface waters, and on the surface of the plants. They can move through the soil and contaminate ground water. • Rain can wash organophosphates on soil and plant surfaces into surface waters. • Organophosphates are rapidly broken down into other chemicals so they do not build up in the environment. • Organophosphates are not likely to build up to high or dangerous levels in animal or plant foods that you might eat.
