IPM can be used in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings. It takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options. In contrast, strictly organic food production limits the use of pesticides to those produced from natural sources. Prevention is the first line of control. IPM starts with setting action thresholds by determining how bad a pest problem needs to be before taking corrective action.
Growers then identify and monitor pests.
Best suited for wilderness areas or large tracts of mixed woodlands or forest. Biological Control - A naturally occurring disease, parasite or predatory organism is manipulated to control a pest. Many biological control organisms are relatively safe and easy to apply. Alternative Chemicals - Selected chemicals not based on synthetic chlorinated or bromated organic molecules nor based on phosphoric acid or carbamic acid. Some plant extracts are very effective - some are very toxic.