Integrated Pest Management

Insects have survived on this planet long before humans ever walked the earth. They’ve adapted to the harshest climates, evolved to thrive in their environment and spread far and wide to every corner of the world. Nature has developed defense mechanisms to combat certain pest species, such as chrysanthemums, which produce neurotoxins to kill off plant-eating insects.

Although pesticides offer effective results at targeting various insects, they contain chemicals and harm the environment and beneficial species. Pest control professionals have developed ways to reduce pesticide use and still combat nuisance pests efficiently. One of these ways is Integrated Pest Management or IPM.

What is Integrated Pest Management?

IPM focuses on preventing, monitoring, controlling and eliminating pests without relying solely on chemical products. It’s a program in which pest control professionals strategically use several methods to prevent and to control nuisance pests of all types, from rodents to mosquitoes. Whether it’s a biological or a structural technique, professionals create and implement a thorough strategy to target the specific pest in question.

How IPM Works

Traditional pest control methods call for identifying the pest and then applying the appropriate chemical treatment. IPM doesn’t work this way. Because pesticides only provide temporary results, it’s important to seek out alternative methods for targeting the problem at the source. IPM involves several tactics to help pest control professionals battle pest infestations, such as:

• Making routine site inspections
• Trapping pests to determine the infestation level
• Keeping a record to track outbreaks
• Using preventative methods to control infestations
• Applying least-toxic and nontoxic products to combat pests

Pest control professionals only use chemical pesticides as a last resort when following an IPM program. Even when trapping doesn’t work and using cultural and biological methods fail, it’s important to inspect the area not only for pests but also for any other organisms that would be affected by the chemicals. If nontoxic pesticides also fail, professionals will then use harsher products to eliminate the infestation.

Why IPM is a Smart Way to Fight Pests

IPM provides a more thorough way of monitoring and controlling pest infestations. It involves using nontoxic and least-toxic methods for targeting insects and other pests. Biological treatments may also be implemented, such as using different organisms and bacteria to target a particular species. IPM is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional pest control and provides greater results when it’s used over the long term.

Contact Valley Pest Solutions for a free quote and to learn more about our IPM program. We believe in preserving nature and beneficial insects while combating nuisance pests. Our trained technicians will inspect and monitor your home and property for troublesome pests and create the ideal solution to eliminate an infestation without harming your family or the environment.