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Conceptual Framework for Trait-Based Ecological Risk Assessment for Wildlife Populations Exposed to Pesticides
Citation:
Awkerman, J. Conceptual Framework for Trait-Based Ecological Risk Assessment for Wildlife Populations Exposed to Pesticides. SETAC North America 36th Annual Meeting, Salt lake City, UT, November 01 - 05, 2015.
Impact/Purpose:
Using first principles about inherent traits that influence exposure likelihood and population-level effects, a framework is presented for determining species vulnerability to pesticide use.
Description:
Between screening level risk assessments and complex ecological models, a need exists for practical identification of risk based on general information about species, chemicals, and exposure scenarios. Several studies have identified demographic, biological, and toxicological factors that affect wildlife population viability. Using first principles about inherent traits that influence exposure likelihood and population-level effects, a framework is presented for determining species vulnerability to pesticide use. Definitions of population vulnerability, chemical hazard, and likelihood of adverse effects are based on existing policy-oriented classification schemes and offer a mid-tier evaluation of risk when data are lacking. Continued development of this conceptual model will offer a starting point for risk assessment that is more ecologically relevant than a risk quotient without the data-intensive and costly methods of species- and chemical-specific models. This approach offers a mid-level strategy for acknowledging traits that make populations more vulnerable to lasting impacts from chemical exposure. Essential in this process is targeting factors that might be incorporated in effects mitigation or management response as a proactive measure of reducing long-term impacts.