What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an approach to pest control that emphasizes regular monitoring, record-keeping, and a diverse set of strategies to prevent unacceptable damage or annoyance to solve pest problems. IPM incorporates biological, cultural, physical, mechanical, educational, and chemical methods in specific combinations to address pest issues. Chemical controls are used sparingly, with a focus on the least-toxic formulations effective against pests. In educational settings, IPM is especially crucial. It involves using the least-toxic products, spot treatments, and non-chemical methods to minimize risks. The key components of an IPM program include monitoring pest populations, accurate pest identification, establishing trigger treatments, choosing least-disruptive tactics, optimal timing of treatments, spot treatments, evaluating effectiveness, and educating all stakeholders involved in pest management. This systematic approach ensures effective pest control without relying heavily on conventional pesticides.
UNL IPM
At UNL IPM, we take a proactive rather than reactive approach to pest management for state-funded buildings. Following the principles of Integrated Pest Management, we emphasize prevention especially through sanitation-based strategies. UNL IPM also assists non-state funded departments including housing, athletics, and student unions on an as-needed basis.
Pests IPM has taken care of on campus:
- Bats
- Roaches
- Mice
- Crickets
- Spiders
- Wasps
- Nuisance birds
- Termites
- Ants
- Stored product pests
- Other pests
Tips to Prevent Pests
Sanitation plays a crucial role in pest management. The presence of pests, especially rodents, can lead to the spread of diseases such as Salmonella, Hantavirus, and Plague. To prevent pest infestations, it's essential to follow good sanitation practices. Some key tips include storing food in airtight containers, regularly disposing of garbage, cleaning up spills promptly, and sealing gaps in windows, doors, pipes, and wires.
Sanitization is different from cleaning, with cleaning involving the removal of visible dirt and debris, while sanitizing focuses on reducing germs to make surfaces safe from harmful bacteria. It is emphasized that sanitizing should follow the cleaning process for optimal effectiveness. Sanitation is a vital step in pest management, and it is not advisable to sanitize without prior cleaning, as this may exacerbate the problem.
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine is emphasized to ensure a sanitized environment. Good hygiene practices, such as washing with soap and water and using approved sanitizing solutions, help control pests and reduce the presence of germs on surfaces.
Sources: