This has led some to believe that the use of forest pesticides must be heavily regulated or prohibited altogether. A choking vegetation overstory and epidemic levels of insects are conditions that can seriously impede the well being of America's forests. Undesirable vegetation can impair the establishment and growth of desired forest trees and forest insects threatened forest health by weakening or killing otherwise normal trees. Disagreement exists between those that believe chemicals use should be severely restricted, or prohibited, and those that believe forest chemicals can be safely used to promote forest growth and productivity. Prior to registration of a pesticide by the EPA the product is tested for its potential to cause many different health and safety effects such as cancer, infertility, sterility, birth defects, nerve damage, genetic mutations or chronic disease.
Chemicals comprise only one of many tools available for vegetative management and pest control.
Prescribed burning, mechanical, silvicultural and biological methods, alone or in combination, are also effective pest and vegetative management teals. By using an Integrated Pest Management concept, the most relevant and effective methods can be used to achieve the desired long term results for both the lowest cost and least environmental impact. Forest pesticides are an important, effective and safe management tools that should continue to be utilized whenever necessary in order to ensure healthy and productive forests.