Searching for alternative methods for a sustainable population management of the common vole (Microtus arvalis) in Saxony-Anhalt

High crop damage can occur due to gradations by Microtus arvalis. After the gradation years 2004/2005 and 2007 the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment Saxony-Anhalt initiated a research project to find new ways of managing Microtus arvalis on farmland. At the moment, the conclusion of this project is that deep tillage is the most effective method to minimize the Microtus populations. The impact of weather conditions such as rain and ground frost without snow is also significant. Because of their nonselective toxicity against other vertebrates rodenticides should only be used as a last option.