Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

In recent years the pest control and prevention industry has become acutely aware of the risks that harsh chemicals pose to our health and the environment. That’s why it’s important to provide natural solutions to pest problems.

When it comes to taking care of your home, you need to strike a balance between eliminating the problem and maintaining a healthy environment for you and your family. One of the reasons pest control can be unpopular with a few is the mistaken belief that noxious chemicals will be used in and around the home when, in fact, most modern-day products used for pest prevention and removal are derived from nature itself. There are many other non-chemical control methods that a pest control professional can use as a part of the integrated pest management (IPM) process.

Prevent Infestations Before They Begin

One of the most effective methods of natural pest control is to identify and eliminate the conditions that breed pests so that you can prevent infestations before they occur. This strategy can include the following:

• Removing sources of food and water.
• Storing food in sealed containers.
• Removing standing water and fixing leaky plumbing.
• Getting rid of clutter.
• Closing off places where pests can enter or hide.
• Sealing off points of entry.

Biological Control

Although we tend to not think about pests until they are in our environment, they are part of a larger ecosystem. They have their own predators and natural enemies. Growers and greenhouse operators have used biological controls for years. Once a pest has been identified, scientists will attempt to identify its natural predators. Once proven to be safe, those predators can be introduced into the environment where pests are presenting a problem.

For example, before knocking down spider webs, a properly trained pest control technician will inform the client of the positive benefits that spiders provide by catching and eating pests that are vectors of disease—such as flies and mosquitoes—and come up with a plan that both can agree on.