ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses a variety of environmental concerns regarding pesticides and their impacts on croplands, comparing tillage practices. It also discusses the possibility of increased pesticides involved in conservation tillage. Several research needs are identified as an outgrowth of such increases in quantities and different types of chemicals. The promise of conservation tillage is extraordinary as a means to reduce soil erosion, halt sedimentation, reduce energy and labor, increase water efficiency, and reduce runoff of chemicals. Large quantities of agricultural chemicals are currently used in crop production regardless of the type of tillage system. In 1982, the most recent year for which figures are available, United States industries produced 682 million kg of pesticides, excluding wood preservatives which account for an additional 455 million kg. Pierre Crosson arrived at a rough 30 percent increase in pesticides with conservation tillage over conventional tillage systems. Conservation tillage increases water efficiency and reduces runoff and sedimentation, thereby improving water quality.
