Illinois Field Crop Applicators Practice Test

Which factors are considered when determining the economic injury level?

1. Weather conditions and seasonal forecasts

2. Number of pests, treatment costs, expected yield, expected grain value

3. Soil health and crop diversity

4. Pest resistance statistics and previous year’s data

The correct answer is: Number of pests, treatment costs, expected yield, expected grain value

The economic injury level (EIL) is a critical concept in pest management that helps farmers decide whether or not to take action against pests. The correct answer focuses on key factors that directly impact the cost-effectiveness of pest control measures. Specifically, the number of pests present informs the severity of the infestation and the potential damage to crops. Understanding treatment costs is essential because it allows farmers to gauge the financial feasibility of implementing pest control measures. Additionally, assessing the expected yield helps in estimating the potential loss due to pest damage, while the expected grain value provides insight into the financial return that can justify the cost of pest management. These combined factors enable farmers to make informed decisions about pest management strategies, ensuring that the investment in control measures is warranted considering the anticipated economic impact. Meanwhile, the other options, while relevant to agriculture and pest management in general, do not directly calculate or inform the economic injury level in the way that the selected choice does.