IPM is based on taking preventive measures, the site for the level of the pest(s), assessing the potential for pest damage, and choosing appropriate actions. Many different tactics may be available, including cultural practices, biological control agents, pesticides, pest-resistant varieties, mechanical methods and physical barriers. In IPM, these tactics may be combined into a plan that best suits the particular situation. It is a comprehensive approach dedicated to removing causes rather than just treating symptoms.
2. IPM is based on taking preventive measures, the site for the level of the
pest(s), assessing the potential for pest damage, and choosing
appropriate actions. Many different tactics may be available, including
cultural practices, biological control agents, pesticides, pest-resistant
varieties, mechanical methods and physical barriers. In IPM, these
tactics may be combined into a plan that best suits the particular
situation. It is a comprehensive approach dedicated to removing causes
rather than just treating symptoms.
3. Introduction
IPM practitioners determine whether intervention
is needed and:
1) When it is needed,
2) Where it is needed, and
3) Which pest management intervention(s)
will be appropriate.
4. Defining IPM
Here is a basic definition which will be used here.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the
coordinated use of pest and environmental
information along with available pest control
methods, including cultural, biological, genetic
and chemical methods, to prevent unacceptable
levels of pest damage by the most economical
means and with the least possible hazard to
people, property, and the environment".
5. Integrated
Integrated means that all feasible types of
control strategies are considered and combined
as appropriate to solve a pest problem.
6. Pests
Pests are unwanted organisms that are a
nuisance to man or domestic animals, and can
cause injury to humans, animals, plants, and
property. Pests reduce yield and/or quality in
plants ranging from field crops, fruits and
vegetables, to lawns, trees, and golf courses.
7. Management
is the process of making decisions in a
systematic way to keep pests from reaching
intolerable levels. Small populations of pests
can often be tolerated; total eradication is often
not necessary, or feasible.
8. All of the components of an IPM approach can
be grouped into three activities:
1. Monitoring
2. Assessing the pest situation
3.Taking action
The Basics of IPM
9. Monitoring
The primary goals are to locate, identify, and rank
the severity of pest infestations.
Monitoring pests involves:
1. Regular checking
2. Proper identification of pests
10. Assessing the pest situation
Assessment is the process of determining the potential for
pest populations to reach an action threshold.
There are five basic factors considered when
setting action thresholds
1. Economics.
2. Health and safety concerns.
3. Aesthetic concerns.
4. Public opinion.
5. Legal requirements.
11. Taking action
Once a pest has reached either an economic
threshold, or intolerable level, action should be
taken.
1. Cultural Controls are those that disrupt the
environment of the pest
2. Physical Barriers
3. Biological Controls - conserving or
releasing natural enemies
4. Chemical control
12. Why Practice IPM?
Many IPM practices are used before a pest
problem develops to prevent or hinder the
buildup of pests.
Reliance on Pesticides can be
Problematic. Pesticides are not always
effective when used as a singular control
tactic. Pests can become resistant to pesticides.
13. Why Practice IPM?
• Promote a Healthy Environment.
The definition of IPM promotes a careful
consideration of all pest control options with
protection of the environment a key goal.
• Maintain a Good Public Image. A
thoughtful approach to pest control, which
protects the environment and provides safe
living conditions, is a basic goal of IPM.
