PESTICIDES AND THE LIVING LANDSCAPE

by Robert L. Rudd ‧ RELEASE DATE: July 17, 1964

Here is a reasoned, objective and scientific examination of the subject catapulted into the awareness of the layman by Rachel Carson's Silent Spring. Uncontrolled chemicals in living environments are an acknowledged issue: immediate action would seem to be demanded. Miss Carson's book undoubtedly precipitated reexamination on the part of the manufacturers, rewriting of warnings, instructions, etc. and considerable research. But none of this has gone far enough. More intensive study is needed both from angles of production and protection, beginning with the appraisal of the impact of chemical contamination of biological resources. Involved are land use practices, soil contamination, response of animals to chemical control, runoff water contamination and the mortality of fish and amphibians, bird reproduction, delayed losses and faunal derangement, the replacement phenomena resulting from imbalance, the ecological relationship and changes in landscape. In summary, the author offers specific proposals involving re-evaluation under foundation support. For those seriously concerned, this extension to the specific is important. The average reader will find it lacking the vividness and the spark which characterized Silent Spring. Carefully documented.

Pub Date: July 17, 1964

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Univ. of Wisconsin Press

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 1, 1964

Categories: NONFICTION