Why practice IPM?

• A. Can prevent or reduce the risks to people and/or the environment
• B. Pesticides can be ineffective
• C. Pesticides rarely work alone
• D. IPM relies solely on pesticides

Answer: (A)

Integrated Pest Management is about protecting people and the environment by keeping pest problems under control with a mix of strategies, not just chemicals. It emphasizes prevention, regular scouting, and decisions based on action thresholds, so you intervene only when pests reach levels that could cause harm. This approach uses a blend of cultural, mechanical, biological, and, when necessary, chemical controls in targeted, lower-risk ways. Because of that, IPM reduces exposure and environmental impact by lowering overall pesticide use and avoiding blanket applications. Pesticides can be ineffective if used too late, at the wrong time, or inappropriately, and IPM isn’t built on relying solely on chemicals—it hinges on multiple tools to prevent problems and keep pests at manageable levels.