Integrated Pest Management For Your Home

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 program may include education, proper waste management, structural repair, maintenance, biological and mechanical control techniques, and pesticide application.

How does IPM differ from traditional pest control?
IPM employs and 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 program.

What is habitat modification?
Home have different microhabitats which provide food, water, and harborage for pests. Decreasing the availability of suitable habitats for pest and denying access into the home may control infestations.

Does IPM eliminate the use of pesticides?
An effective IPM program 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.