What is an example of a pest monitoring tool?

Field scouting is an example of a pest monitoring tool because it involves systematically checking crops and plants for signs of pest activity and damage. This method allows for the identification of pest populations, determining their levels, and assessing the overall health of the ecosystem. By conducting regular field scouting, farmers and pest management professionals can gather vital data that guides their pest management decisions, ensuring that actions taken are timely and effective.

The other options, while related to agricultural practices, serve different purposes. Pesticide application equipment is used for applying substances to control pests rather than monitoring their presence. Harvesting tools are designed for collecting crops, not for tracking pest populations. Soil testing kits are utilized to assess soil health and nutrient levels but do not directly monitor pests or their activities.