Economic Injury Levels: Reality and Practicality

For at least 20 years, the economic injury level (EIL) concept has been generally accepted by entomologists as the backbone of progressive concepts in insect control, namely, integrated control, insect pest management, and integrated pest management. The concept serves as the economic foundation in decision-making processes. In sharp contrast to their theoretical importance, however, economic injury levels have often been the weakest component in management programs. Very few firm, research-based EILs have been established. Many ElLs in use are static and do not reflect changes in prices and other factors. The research community continually finds itself being asked “Where are the EILs?“