Which would be considered a preventive pest management strategy?

Planting weed- and disease-free seed on an athletic field represents a preventive pest management strategy because it focuses on establishing a healthy and robust environment for plants from the outset. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of pests and diseases taking hold, as healthy plants are more resilient and capable of withstanding potential stressors. By starting with clean and healthy seeds, the risk of introducing pathogens or pests into the area is minimized, thereby maintaining optimal conditions for growth and reducing future pest management challenges.

In contrast, using pesticides as needed is more reactive, addressing issues after they occur. Monitoring pest activity is crucial for understanding current pest populations but does not prevent infestations. Similarly, removing debris after an infestation addresses problems post-factum rather than preventing them. This highlights the importance of preventive strategies in sustainable pest management, where the goal is to create conditions that discourage pest outbreaks before they start.