Legislative and policy limits to successful integrated pest management in Canada's forests

Abstract

The manner in which integrated pest management (IPM) in forestry is constrained by legislation and policy is discussed. Legislation and policy constraints may override biological considerations in determining the course of IPM, and can have implications for information requirements and predictive abilities beyond the capacity of the agencies involved in the IPM program. One piece of legislation may limit the methods available to meet the requirements of other legislation and policies. Legislation, regulations and policies often overlook the requirement that considerable biological and ecological understanding of systems is essential for success, and do not ensure appropriate funding for their successful enactment. Scientists should develop inputs to the legislative and regulatory processes with the assistance of technology transfer specialists.