Integrated Pest Management IPM - Prudential Pest Solutions

Integrated pest management IPM is the future of the pest control industry. For far too long the pest control industry has relied on chemicals to achieve control of the infesting insect.

The limitation of only using chemicals to achieve insect control is that the insects can adapt and become resistant to the chemical. If the insect becomes resistant to the chemical being applied than the chemical is no longer effective.

Another issue with an all-chemical approach is environmental. As our understanding of environmental impacts evolves, using chemicals that are stronger and more potent is going to effect the environment.

As chemicals become more regulated, it may be more difficult to find a chemical that can control the insect you are having issues with.

For all of these limitations, the pest control industry has moved towards a new approach to pest control and exterminating. That approach is called integrated pest management or IPM.

IPM in action

IPM utilizes chemicals in conjunction with other processes to achieve insect control. These other processes include sealing and exclusion, habitat modification, and environmental modification.

Habitat modification could be as simple as removing a food source that pests find attractive. Environmental modification could involve eliminating moisture issues or areas where pests can hide and live.

Creating a physical barrier between the outside world and the inside of a structure is the most effective means for keeping pests out. The best way to achieve this is by sealing pest entrances and performing exclusion services.

Keeping a log book of pests sighted is an extremely valuable tool for pest control professionals. Knowing where the pest was last seen and when helps in the eradication process and helps to track issues and results.

Chemical application can still be used with an IPM program but are viewed as a second option, and not the first choice.