INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT

CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS TO MEET YOUR NEEDS

WHAT IS INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)?

Integrated pest management, or IPM, is a system of controlling pests by combining biological, mechanical, cultural, physical and chemical control methods in a way the minimizes economic, health and environmental risks. Pests are monitored by regular and careful inspections. The inspections are designed to identify pests and the conditions contributing to the pest problems. Based on the inspection the technician then decides what actions are necessary. The knowledge of the pests’ biology and habits will help in determining what methods or techniques would best control the pests at the lowest potential exposure possible.

COMPONENTS OF IPM

BIOLOGICAL METHODS

Biological control is a very specific pest control strategy involving the use of other living creatures to kill or neutralize a pest. Natural predators of the target pest may be protected, developed, or even imported to the affected area.

Biological methods can be a very effective strategy, particularly in the control of outdoor pests – because no pesticides or chemicals are used and the pests don’t become resistant to the control method.

MECHANICAL / PHYSICAL METHODS

Mechanical control is the management of pests through physical means, by altering the physical conditions in a currently infested or at-risk area .

Physical methods include the use of exclusionary methods such as barriers, fences and electronic wires – as well as sealing holes and cracks that pests can easily pass through. Baiting and trapping may also be used, to lure and capture the pests.

CULTURAL METHODS

Cultural pest control involves the manipulation of the environment or implementation of preventive practices that interrupt or negatively affect a pest’s life or feeding cycle.

This method may include gardening modifications such as weeding or using plants that are resistant to pests. Recommendations may also include modifications to sanitation and waste disposal practices in order to minimize food sources for unwanted pests.

CHEMICALS / PESTICIDES

Chemical pest control refers to the use of pesticides and bio-pesticides. Except in extreme cases, pesticides are generally only used in conjunction with other forms of integrated pest management, such as physical and cultural methods.

Biopesticides are derived from natural elements as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. Examples include canola oil and baking soda.

Chemical Pesticides include products such as insect growth regulators, pheromones, and other chemical-based products designed to kill pests, At Alternative Pest Control, pesticides are used as infrequently as possible, and selected and applied in a way that poses minimal harm to people, pets and the environment.

ECO-FRIENDLY PEST CONTROL

Alternative Pest Control offers eco-friendly or “green” alternatives to traditional pest control. These methods can allow for effective treatment while reducing health risks for pets, children and adults.

Biopesticides: pesticides derived from natural elements as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. Examples include canola oil and baking soda.

Cryonite: Liquid CO2 (carbon dioxide) is used to kill insects by freezing them

Trapping: Insects and rodents are lured using specific colors, odors or shapes – then trapped with a liquid, sticky agent or cage. Electronic traps are also available.

Exclusion: Natural, man made or electronic barriers to eliminate entry points and prevent pests from accessing the environment or space.

Eco-Friendly methods may not always be as effective as Integrated Pest Management which employs a blend of tactics to minimize pest problems – while posing significantly less health risks than traditional exterminating

OUR INTEGRATED PEST CONTROL SERVICES

Alternative Pest Control provides integrated pest control services for residential, commercial and property management clients in the NJ and NY areas.