Which approach aligns with IPM principles when managing pests?

• A. Use non-chemical methods first, then chemical controls as needed.
• B. Rely only on chemical controls.
• C. Avoid sanitation.
• D. Ignore monitoring.

Answer: (C)

Integrated Pest Management focuses on using a mix of strategies, starting with prevention and least-harmful methods, guided by careful monitoring and action thresholds. The approach that aligns with IPM is to emphasize non-chemical methods first and apply chemical controls only as needed based on what monitoring shows. Sanitation is a key preventive measure because removing food sources, water, and harborage reduces pest pressure, making other controls more effective and pesticides less necessary.

Relying solely on chemicals ignores the multi-method, preventive nature of IPM. Avoiding sanitation defeats a foundational preventive step, and ignoring monitoring prevents timely, data-driven decisions about when and what to treat.