Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings collection
Date of this Version
March 1978
Abstract
Man's use of chemical pesticides has received much attention in recent years, reflecting or generating public consciousness of our environmental welfare. The establishment of Water Quality Acts, the Toxic Substances Control Act, air pollution standards, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also exemplify this consciousness which has become a major political force. Although there is some unyielding antagonism against all chemicals used to control pests, there is general agreement that pesticides are necessary for the protection of our health, food, fiber, and habitats. Nevertheless, some pesticides have serious shortcomings, especially toxicity to nontarget organisms and long persistence in the environment. These and other problems involving commerce and safety led to the promulgation of federal regulations to mitigate the adverse effects of pesticides on human life and the environment.