What might be a consequence of not adhering to pest management thresholds?

Not adhering to pest management thresholds can lead to unacceptable damage to crops or the environment. Pest management thresholds are established levels that indicate when pest populations may cause significant harm. When these thresholds are ignored, it can result in a pest population that escalates uncontrollably, leading to severe damage to the crops or ecosystems involved.

For instance, if the presence of pests is allowed to exceed established thresholds, crops may suffer from reduced yields, quality deterioration, and even total crop loss if the problem escalates further. Additionally, excessive pest infestations can push farmers to resort to more aggressive and potentially harmful pesticide applications, which can have detrimental effects on non-target species, soil health, and water quality. Thus, adhering to these thresholds is vital for the sustainability of both agricultural practices and environmental conservation.