Insect Pest Management Alternatives

Managing insect pests has changed significantly since the introduction of inexpensive synthetic insecticides. Making insect management decisions is easier. Traditional methods of insect management such as crop rotation, cultural control, and use of resistant varieties are relied upon less frequently because insecticides are so effective. However, insecticide use has negative aspects such as insecticide resistance, resurgence of pest species, and harmful effects on non-target organisms. These problems as well as recent public concern over the use of synthetic chemicals in agricultural production systems are encouraging the re-evaluation of traditional methods of insect pest management