Weed management: the broader context - Ecological Management of Agricultural Weeds - page 494

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Weed management: the broader context
Introduction
Biological and physical techniques that can serve as components of
multitactic weed management strategies abound. Examples throughout this
book illustrate how greater knowledge of ecological processes can maintain or
improve crop yields while decreasing dependence on herbicides. We suggest
that by reducing the need for herbicides, ecologically based weed manage-
ment strategies can help farmers reduce their input costs,reduce threats to the
environment and human health, and minimize selection for herbicide-
resistant weeds.
Despite the potential benefits of ecological weed management, most
farmers in industrialized countries continue to rely heavily on herbicides,and
the use of herbicides in developing countries is increasing. Many agricultural
analysts question the ability of the world's farmers to produce enough food
for a burgeoning human population without continued emphasis on herbi-
cides and other agrichemical technologies. Some analysts argue that it will be
possible to protect natural habitats and wildlife only by increasing production
per unit of farmland through the intensive use of pesticides,synthetic fertiliz-
ers, genetically engineered seeds, and other purchased inputs.
In this chapter we examine reasons why ecological weed management has
not been widely embraced and address whether ecological weed management
is indeed consistent with the goals of increasing food security and protecting
nature. We then suggest ways to promote research on ecological weed man-
agement. Finally, we address ways to foster ecological weed management on
farms in both industrialized and developing countries.
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