County of Santa Clara structural integrated pest management

Pest control operators and facilities managers face tough challenges in solving pest problems in urban environments that can create real or perceived risks. Traditionally, pest control consisted of the general application of one or more pesticides. However, there has been a movement away from relying solely on pesticides to solve pest problems in response to public concerns over pesticide use. There are several pesticide reduction strategies available for use. Integrated pest management (IPM) programs discourage unnecessary pesticide use and generic prescriptive pesticide treatments. It involves the safe prevention, reduction or elimination of unwanted organisms.

Pest control providers and clients must agree on what IPM is and how it differs from non-IPM, calendar-scheduled, pesticide-intensive services. Also important to include in discussions are the benefits IPM can deliver, who is involved, what cooperation and participation is expected from all parties involved, how will everybody communicate, how records will be kept, how pesticides will be selected, stored, and applied; and what notification procedures will be followed. Building occupants also play a major role in sanitation. How will they be educated? How will occupants communicate any pest problems they observe?

The success of an IPM program depends on the experience, skill, education and delivery of inspection/ monitoring/ reporting techniques of IPM service team as well as awareness, enthusiasm, and cooperation of the facilities management group and building occupants. The paper demonstrates County of Santa Clara Structural IPM project, its leadership and creativity in advancing the use of reduced risk pest management in urban settings.