Integrated Pest Management

Insects have plagued farmers and gardeners since the dawn of agriculture, and continue to munch their way through millions of dollars worth of valuable vegetation every year. But after the widespread commercialization of industrial chemicals in the U.S., scientists began to envision a more effective, safer way of dealing with pests versus simply dousing the countryside in toxic chemicals. In the years after World War II, the concept of integrated pest management (IPM) began to develop, in which pests could be controlled by combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools in a way that seeks to minimize cost as well as health and environmental risks. What this means is that practitioners employ a range of complementary methods, including encouraging natural predators and parasites of target pests, introducing biological controls such as lady bugs, planting pest-resistant varieties, employing mechanical means (such as direct removal of pests, crop rotation, tillage and barriers), and judicious application of small amounts of pesticides as a last resort. IPM has become popular with many environmentalists, public health officials and others seeking to reduce exposure to pesticides, because it can significantly cut down on both the quantities of chemicals used, and the chances that pesticides will affect non-target species or human beings. The main focus is traditionally nuisance insects, but IPM can be used to manage diseases, weeds and other issues. With a little planning and knowledge of local ecology, IPM can help people ensure a cleaner, healthier environment, as well as save money on pesticide applications.

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