There is a new Integrated Pest Management (IPM) resource on Small Farm Canada’s website. It is a great resource if you are fine-tuning your pest management strategies and want to integrate strategies that have less impact.
Anyone with any-sized operation can use these techniques. It starts with understanding the conditions upon which pests thrive and pulling a ‘George Costanza’, that is creating conditions that are the opposite to those under which they thrive.
Here is a comprehensive definition of IPM from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources:
“IPM is an ecosystem-based 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. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and nontarget organisms, and the environment.”
If you wish to learn more about how to fine-tune your pest management with IPM check out our new resource page on pest control and let our editor know of similar resources you would like to see on our website.
For more information, tips about managing pests on your farm, homestead and property, subscribe here and get Small Farm Canada delivered straight to your door!