Under federal law, which of the following actions is unlawful and subject to civil or criminal penalties?

Under federal law, detaching, altering, defacing, or destroying any part of a pesticide container or its labeling is considered unlawful and can lead to civil or criminal penalties. The importance of maintaining the integrity of pesticide labeling cannot be overstated, as labels provide critical information regarding safe usage, handling, and application methods. They also include necessary regulatory details to ensure compliance with safety and environmental protection standards. Tampering with this information can pose significant risks, both to public health and the environment, thereby attracting legal consequences.

The other actions described—such as storing pesticides in a locked container, applying pesticides under proper supervision, or mixing different pesticides—are generally not illegal under federal law when performed with adherence to the regulations and guidance provided for safe and responsible pesticide management. For instance, secure storage is a recommended practice, while supervision ensures safe application. Therefore, the correct choice highlights a specific violation concerning the handling of pesticide containers and labeling, emphasizing the legal framework established to ensure safety in pest control practices.