What is Integrated Pest Management?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices.

Integrated Pest Management 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, property, and the environment.

The Integrated Pest Management approach can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden, and workplace.

Integrated Pest Management takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options including, but not limited to, the judicious use of pesticides.

How does Integrated Pest Management work?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is not a single pest control method but, rather, a series of pest management evaluations, decisions and controls.

Integrated Pest Management compliant companies take the following steps:

Assessment

Before taking any pest control action, Integrated Pest Management compliant companies sets an action threshold, a point at which pest populations or environmental conditions indicate that pest control action must be taken.

Inspection and Detection

Not all insects, weeds, and other living organisms require control. Many organisms are innocuous, and some are even beneficial.

Prevention

As a first line of pest control, Integrated Pest Management programs work to manage the lawn, or indoor space to prevent pests from becoming a threat. These control methods can be very effective and cost-efficient and present little to no risk to people or the environment.

Control

This alternative approach to the traditional pest management uses information on the life cycles of the pests and their interactions with the environment, in combination with available pest control methods, to manage pests by the most economical means with the least possible damage to people, property, and the environment.

IPM teaches pest management professionals how to employ non-chemical; pest management methods such as sanitation first–with chemical control methods being used only when necessary.