Which of the following factors should be considered regarding water characteristics in herbicide planning?

In herbicide planning, understanding temperature, alkalinity, and percentage of dissolved oxygen (% DO) is crucial as these factors significantly affect herbicide efficacy and aquatic ecosystem health.

Temperature influences chemical reactions in water, including how quickly herbicides break down. Each herbicide has an optimal temperature range for effectiveness, and knowing the water temperature helps determine appropriate timing for application.

Alkalinity acts as a buffer for pH changes in the water. A higher alkalinity can enhance the stability of certain herbicides, while lower alkalinity may cause rapid degradation. This variability can affect the herbicide's performance and persistence in the aquatic environment.

The percentage of dissolved oxygen is vital for the health of aquatic organisms and can influence the behavior of herbicides. Low dissolved oxygen levels can stress fish and other aquatic life, potentially affecting their response to chemical treatments.

By considering these combined factors, a more informed and strategic approach can be taken regarding herbicide application, ensuring it is effective while minimizing harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not encompass the comprehensive nature of how herbicide performance can be impacted as effectively as these three factors do.