Integrated pest management is an environmentally friendly approach to controlling pests.It is very effective and even prevents future pest problems. It is also the most common method of controlling pests.
Principals of integrated pest management
Traditional pest control involves the application of pesticides that focus on prevention of pest infestation. It only uses pesticide and is environmentally friendly. Integrated pest management or IPM programs take advantage of pest control strategies such as the constant use of pesticides. The application is limited because too much exposure to the pesticide can outweigh the benefit of the control.
Integrated pest control involves multiple methods of control which are obtained through monitoring, inspection and reports. The program is designed to make sure that goals of prevention are successful. Successful programs involve:
- Identifying the pests
- Knowing the effects of the pest and how far it has spread
- Set action thresholds
- Prevent
- Control
- Identifying the pest and knowing how far it has progressed
Proper identification of pests is important it is required to:
- The type of pest
- Preventive measures
- The amount of pesticides required
- Elimination of beneficial organisms
- Maintaining proper records
- Pest population
- Areas vulnerable to pests
- Efficiency of control and prevention methods
- Set action thresholds
Setting action will helps you focus on scope, intensity and size of an IPM. Action threshold involves determination of pest population and the level at which the pest is at. The level could be:
- A health hazard
- Nuisance
- Economic treat
- Prevent
Pest management focuses on the prevention of pests by removing conditions that attract pests. These conditions include food, shelter and water. These prevention methods include:
- Removal of stagnant water
- Removing trash or overgrown vegetation
- Installing barriers
- Maintaining a clean home
- Sealing places where pests enter the building
- Reducing clutter
- Control of pests
Pest control is required after setting the threshold. If the threshold is exceeded, you have to try pest control as soon as possible. While conducting pest control, you should document the actions taken. You should also show evidence of pesticides used and provide recommendations that can prevent future pest issues. Pest control methods include:
- Physical removal of pests
- Application of pesticides
- Cold or heat treatment
- Trapping of pests
Benefits of integrated pest management
There are lots of benefits that accompany a successful integrated pest control. Some of the benefits of controlling pests include:
- Reduction of pests
- Reduction in the amount of pesticides used
- Increased yield
- Saving money while protecting human health
Cockroaches, rodents and mites are found in buildings. They can cause serious allergies or asthma attacks to people. Proper pest control will ensure that such pests are eliminated and cannot cause health hazards. While eradicating pests, you should ensure that you are well protected and children should stay away from the chemicals to prevent them from being sick.