ABSTRACT
Eradication is the removal of every potentially reproducing individual of a species from an area that will not be reinvaded by other members of the species. The undertaking of an eradication program implies that the program organizers have the right, jurisdiction, and technological ability to eliminate the species, and that cost-benefit analyses support the decision. Exotic species are the most frequent targets of eradication programs, and their potential removal from the ecosystem is likely to be acceptable to most people, particularly those who are not directly involved. However, the financial, environmental, and potential health costs resulting from exposure to poisons or insecticides that accompany large-scale eradication programs are usually unacceptable to a portion of society. In addition, individuals often are required to give up certain rights for the sake of the area-wide program; consequently, obtaining the necessary cooperation for eradication programs is sometimes difficult (Collins et al., 1999; Kazmierczac and Smith, 1996).
