What is IPM

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a way to reduce pesticide use and still keep bugs at bay. It is environmentally sound and reduces human exposure to pesticides. IPM takes a reduced toxicity approach to pest control and employs a variety of pest prevention methods instead of relying on pesticide alone.

Control strategies in an IPM program begin with prevention - structural and environmental modifications that reduce pest access to resources like food, water, and harborage. Chemical control methods are still used, but only on an "as needed basis". When chemical control methods are necessary, only the least toxic, most effective products are used. All pesticide products are placed in locations where they are accessible to pests but inaccessible to students, faculty, and staff.