Ecosystem management and our national forests -- is there a role for forest herbicides?

Abstract

Abstract.Environmentally safe, selective herbicide treatments can be adapted to manage habitats and direct succession toward desired future conditions within the principles of Ecosystem Management (EM). Six roles for herbicide treatments in EM are suggested: create and maintain desired habitats; create mixed and unevenaged stands; restore damaged landscapes; control exotic, noxious and poisonous plants; maintain recreational areas, trails, and scenic vistas; and manage rights-of-way for multiple use. Low impact, selective herbicide treatments include tree injection, cut-stump sprays or wipes, basal sprays or wipes, directed sprays, and soil-spot sprays. Selective control can also be achieved using broadcast (aerial and ground) applications of selective herbicides. Currently less than 0.1% of National Forest lands are treated with chemical herbicides, in a typical year. The six roles and treatment methodologies are consistent with the desire of the current administration to decrease pesticide use, to use safer pesticides, and to emphasize integrated pest management programs.

Citation

McMahon, Charles K.; Miller, J.H.; Thomas, D.F. 1994. Ecosystem management and our national forests -- is there a role for forest herbicides?. In: Street, Joe E. ed. Proceedings of the southern weed science society, weed science education: the cost of ignorance. 1994 January 17-19. Dallas, TX. Champaign, IL: Southern Weed Science Society: 131-134.