What is a potential side effect of pesticide use in forest environments?

The potential side effect of pesticide use in forest environments that is highlighted is the harm to non-target species. When pesticides are applied, they can inadvertently affect a variety of organisms that were not the intended targets of the chemical. This can include beneficial insects such as pollinators, natural pest predators, and other wildlife that play crucial roles in the ecosystem. The disruption of these populations can lead to imbalances in the forest environment, which may ultimately impact biodiversity and the health of the ecosystem.

In contrast, improved growth of target tree species, reduction in pest populations, and increased soil fertility are outcomes that one might hope to achieve with pesticide application, but they do not typically characterize the potential side effects of such chemicals. The benefits related to target species may be overshadowed by the negative consequences on the ecosystem as a whole.