Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a pest management strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties.

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ɪnˈtɛɡreɪtɪd pɛst mænɪdʒmənt/

Etymology

The term "Integrated Pest Management" was first used in the 1970s, although the concept has been practiced for much longer. The term integrates (combines) different types of pest control methods into a single, comprehensive plan.

Related Terms

• Biological control
• Habitat manipulation
• Cultural practices
• Resistant varieties

Description

Integrated Pest Management is a sustainable approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health, and environmental risks. The goal of IPM is not to eliminate all pests, but to reduce the population to a level that does not cause significant harm or economic loss.

IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.

See Also

• Pest control
• Biological control
• Habitat manipulation
• Cultural practices
• Resistant varieties

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