Which of the following is NOT a control method in Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM)?

Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) employs a range of control methods to manage plant species effectively, particularly in controlling invasive species or maintaining desired vegetation in various landscapes. The methods typically associated with IVM include manual, chemical, and cultural controls.

Manual control methods involve physical removal or suppression of plants, such as hand-pulling or using tools to cut vegetation. Chemical control refers to the use of herbicides or other chemical treatments to manage unwanted vegetation effectively. Cultural control encompasses practices that modify the environment to influence plant growth, such as altering irrigation practices, changing planting times, or selecting specific plant species that can outcompete undesirable ones.

While ecosystem-level considerations are important in the context of IVM, the term "ecosystem" itself does not specifically refer to a control method. Instead, it represents a broader context in which these methods may be applied. Therefore, identifying "ecosystem" as not being a specific control method underscores the focus on the tangible, actionable techniques utilized in IVM strategies.