INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
IPM is an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage, through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and nontarget organisms, and the environment.
- Forms of Pest Management
- Biological Control
- Cultural Control
- Mechanical and Physical Control
- Chemical Control
These IPM principles and practices are combined to create IPM programs. While each situation is different, six major components are common to all IPM programs:
- Pest identification
- Monitoring and assessing pest numbers and damage
- Guidelines for when management action is needed
- Preventing pest problems
- Using a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical/physical, and chemical management tools.
- After an action is taken, assessing the effect of pest management.
