ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I explore how ecological modeling can contribute to pesticide risk assessment. I argue that, despite some challenges that need to be addressed, increased application of ecological models has the potential to greatly improve our estimates of risk and can do so in a cost-effective manner. Ecological models cannot and should not be expected to entirely replace laboratory and eld studies, and the costs associated with developing and applying models need to be balanced against the benets that they can provide for risk assessment. As a general rule, a model should be no more complex than necessary to address the questions of interest. Thus, different types of ecological models may be best suited to different types of risk assessment questions. An important challenge is to demonstrate, clearly and convincingly, that the use of ecological models leads to substantially better risk assessments than those provided by current procedures. Overcoming this challenge will require development of a carefully designed research program, increased training in model use and interpretation, and active involvement of all stakeholders.
