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Definition of IPM:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a decision-making process
that anticipates and prevents
pest activity and infestation by combining several strategies to
achieve long-term solutions. Components of an IPM
programme may include education, proper waste
management, structural repair, maintenance, biological
and mechanical control techniques, and pesticide
application.
IPM Steps
- Inspection
- Identify Pests and Conducive Conditions
- Prevention
- Customer Consultation
- Sanitation, Exclusion and, if necessary, Pesticide Application
- Evaluation
- Monitoring
IPM Benefits
- Pest Prevention
- Customer Awareness
- Less Reliance on Pesticides
- Improved Home Maintenance
- Long-Term Solutions
- Precise Pesticide Application
- Effective and Environmentally Sensitive Protection
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:
- How does IPM differ from traditional pest control?
IPM employs an approach that requires more participation by the homeowner to achieve long-term pest control.
- What does "integrated" mean?
The use of two or more pest management
techniques (Inspection, Identification,
Sanitation, Cultural, Mechanical, Biological
and/or Pesticides) to achieve established pest
management objectives.
- What does an IPM service involve?
An IPM service requires time and effort
to: inspect and monitor pest activity; employ
procedures; make suggestions for eliminating
points of entry and resting areas; and deter
potential pest infestations and/or reduce existing
ones.
- What is your responsibility as a homeowner
in an IPM program?
Your continuous involvement and participation
are needed to implement your pest control
technician's recommendations for an effective
programme.
- What is habitat modification?
Homes have different microhabitats which
provide food, water, and harborage for pests.
Decreasing the availability of suitable habitats
for pests and denying access into the home may
control infestations.
- Does IPM eliminate the use of pesticides?
An effective IPM programme may include the
use of pesticides. However, the amount needed
will likely be reduced.
- When pesticides are used, how are they
applied?
The appropriate use and application of
pesticides are spelled out by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency and others, and will vary
according to circumstances. Your pest control
technician will tell you where and how pesticides
will be applied in or near your home.
Information Courtesy of NPCA of America.
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