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 management strategies can help farmers reduce their input costs, reduce threats to the environment and human health, and minimize selection for herbicideresistant 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 herbicides 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 fertilizers, 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 management. Finally, we address ways to foster ecological weed management on farms in both industrialized and developing countries.