Vertebrate-related problems for the plant protection service - a summary contribution to the discussion

The problems for the Plant Protection Service (PPS) in the FRG range from difficulties in actually controlling vertebrates in the field and in stored products to the improvement of public acceptance for this line of work. It is pointed out that especially in scientific research important questions still have to be answered before packets of measures in the sense of 'Integrated Control' can be introduced. The laboratory work conducted in the FRG to solve these questions is seriously hampeted by legal acts for animal protection. On the other hand, experiments in the field and their interpretation are difficult because of considerable methodical difficulties. Necessary developments are listed taking into consideration the fact that all measures of chemical control against vertebrates can only have a limited effect concerning time and size of treated area. However, one of the most important problems is the lack in public acceptance of the development and advisory work being done by the PPS. This organization is legally bound to work inside defined limitations and rules and so is in no position to completely fulfill the expectations of either farmers or environment protection groups. In the public discussion this fact and the legal right of any citizen to apply approved pesticides are not taken into account sufficiently. Any change demanded in this field has to be decided on by legislative bodies