These practitioners believe that farmers can produce high quality crops using fewer pesticides and working with the natural balance of nature. IPM practices integrate the use of natural predators, economic thresholds, crop monitoring and cultural practices with or without the use of pesticides. The result of a successful IPM program is effective pest control with a minimum impact to the environment, crop or people. To successfully adopt IPM, farmers and horticulturalists must have informed advisors, effective and practical methods, and a ready source of information. AAIE was founded to serve those needs.
All producers are interested in producing crops and plants within ecologically sound principles.
But to change their production methods, they must be sure those changes do not sacrifice harvests or the ability to plant future crops. AAIE members understand producer concerns and needs. In the following ways, AAIE works to assist producers in their efforts to move from traditional farming methods towards IPM practices. Serves as a resource for IPM research projects conducted by consultants, universities or industry. Increases awareness and knowledge of the IPM concept among regulators, politicians and the public.