Design, use and evaluation of an online IPM risk calculator for public schools

Pest-proofing, maintenance and building repair are integral parts of a school integrated pest management (IPM) program. However in light of tight budgets and limited manpower, prioritizing structural maintenance and modifications is critical.  An IPM risk calculator was designed to assist school district administrators evaluate the overall pest risk of a school campus, and identify the structural features and maintenance practices that contribute most to that overall pest risk. 

The IPM calculator has been tested in school districts from several regions across the country. In this poster we will briefly describe the model for calculating pest risk and compare calculator risk estimates against school size, size of budget and other district demographics.