Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, pets, property and the environment.

 

The IPM approach can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden and workplace. IPM takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options including, but not limited to, the judicious use of pesticides. In contrast, organic food production applies many of the same concepts as IPM but limits the use of pesticides to those that are produced from natural sources, as opposed to synthetic chemicals.

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Preventive cultural practices

Suppress pest problems by minimizing the conditions they need to live (water, shelter, food). Since insects are cold-blooded, their physical development is dependent on area temperatures. Regular inspections for any cracks or holes, both on the inside and outside of the structure, including screens, weather-stripping around doors and windows, leaky faucets, appliances and pipes. Cleaning up unnecessary clutter (including papers), which can provide hiding and nesting places, or even nesting materials.

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Monitoring

Regular observation is critically important. Early detection of pests creates an early warning system for pests, helping to prevent or minimize a pest outbreak. Observation is broken into inspection and identification. Visual inspection, insect traps and other methods are used to monitor pest levels. Record-keeping is essential, as is a thorough knowledge to target pest behavior and reproductive cycles.

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Mechanical controls

Mechanical and physical controls have relatively little impact on natural enemies and other non-target organisms, and are compatible with biological controls. They can be rapid and effective and are well suited for the structure and landscape. Control Measures Include: Habitat manipulation (weed control), creating barriers (door sweeps, weather-stripping, and screens), trapping, hand removal, and vacuuming.

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Biological controls

Natural biological processes and materials can provide control with acceptable environmental impact and often at lower cost, introducing natural enemies of insect pests, also known as biological control agents.

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Responsible use

Synthetic pesticides are used as required and often only at specific times in a pest's life cycle. Many newer pesticides are derived from plants or naturally occurring substances (e.g. nicotine, Pyrethrin (a botanical insecticide) and insect juvenile hormone analogues) but the active component may be altered to provide increased biological activity or stability. Applications of pesticides must reach their intended targets. The use of low-volume spray equipment reduces overall pesticide use.