What is one benefit of using integrated pest management (IPM)?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control that emphasizes the use of a variety of strategies to manage pests in a way that is environmentally sustainable and minimizes health risks. One of the primary benefits of IPM is that it minimizes environmental and health risks. This approach incorporates practices such as monitoring pest populations, using biological control methods, implementing cultural practices, and applying chemical controls only when necessary and in a targeted manner.

By integrating different management techniques, IPM reduces reliance on harmful pesticides, thereby lowering the potential for pesticide resistance and decreasing the likelihood of negative impacts on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, wildlife, and human health. This comprehensive method not only addresses the immediate needs of pest control but also promotes long-term sustainability and ecological balance in turf management practices.

In contrast, relying solely on chemical controls can lead to environmental degradation and increased health risks, whereas an increased use of chemical fertilizers may contribute to runoff and pollution problems. Focusing only on aesthetic improvements overlooks the important aspects of pest management that prioritize ecosystem health and sustainability. Thus, minimizing environmental and health risks aligns perfectly with the core principles of IPM.