In non-agricultural contexts, such as stewardship of conservation lands, the definition and delineation of both crop and pest may be more challenging than in classic agricultural contexts. This situation may be represented in the extreme when managing endangered species <i>in situ</i>. Here, the “crop” is not only the endangered (focal) species, but the vegetation matrix, pollinators, prey and predator species—any biotic components that support its desirable habitat. Further, the “pest” must be considered in both its potential competitive and beneficial roles before being identified as a target for control. As such, the desirable (non-target) species are abundant and diverse and the risk threshold is very low. However, given that maintenance and improvement of conditions <i>in situ</i> for endangered species typically involve managing vegetation, essential conservation tools include tested, effective herbicides. Once a target (or targets) for control has been identified, the most appropriate control method (e.g., mechanical, prescribed burn, chemical, etc.) must be determined. When the chemical approach has been selected as providing the best benefit:risk ratio, the pesticide’s effective and safe use relies not only on strict adherence to label directions. Further risk management measures towards safeguarding the focal (endangered) species may include pre-application monitoring, conducting a pilot test, or combining two or more control methods. The Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM) is one such organization that selectively uses herbicides on its preserves in California and Washington state, all of which are occupied by state- or federal-listed species or are sensitive wetlands. Although additional information on the effects of pesticides—particularly cumulative impacts and development of resistance—within ecosystem context is important, their safe and effective use will always require well-reasoned application because each situation is unique. The conservation applicator—like a farmer—is most effective when practicing in a long-term and adaptive management context.

When the crop is an endangered species: Managing risk and efficacy in the use of pesticides on endangered species preserves in the western U.S.

ACS Fall 2020 Virtual Meeting

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.