David South of Auburn University recently posted the results of his survey concerning whether or not the use of methyl bromide in nursery operations was "consistant with ecologically sound principles." David, I found the results of your survey interesting, although not particularly surprising. If asked if the use of methyl bromide is "consistant with ecologically sound principles" (whatever those are), I guess I would also answer no. If asked if the use of methyl bromide is valid, I would probably answer yes. Or at least I wouldn't say no based simply on ecological considerations. I don't believe we've reached the point where all of our decisions are to be based solely on ecological principles. If methyl bromide helps meet some legitimate objectives then there is no reason not to use that tool. There are many things we do in management that are not a part of the natural ecology of the systems we deal with, but they are done because they facilitate the meeting of our objectives. Planting loblolly pine in rows, for example, is likely viewed by many as not consistant with ecologically sound principles; but I'm sure you'd agree that plantations facilitate some legitimate objectives. I fully support ecosystem based management approaches, and in fact spend the majority of my time promoting such approaches. However, I don't think we should fall into the trap of thinking all of our decisions need be based entirely on ecological objectives. Scott Roberts Purdue University
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