Integrated Pest Management

What is Integrated Pest Management?
There are many definitions, but one aim: to minimize unwelcome pests -- inside and out -- with the goal of reducing, but not necessarily eliminating, the use of chemical pesticides.

Why IPM?
Many citizens are concerned about the overuse and misuse of chemical pesticides in the landscape and in our homes, schools and other buildings--especially places where children and pets play. While IPM does not eliminate chemical use, it helps ensure that chemicals are used only when necessary, and that they are used efficiently and safely.

For more information on Integrated Pest Management, contact the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 offices: (800) 621-8431.

Limits on Pesticide Applications

Pesticide Applicators Must Be Licensed By the State of Illinois
Residents and businesses are reminded that the commercial application of pesticides is regulated by the State of Illinois. The law states that no businesses shall apply pesticides to any vegetation without first securing a state-issued commercial spraying service license.

This license is issued to qualified commercial contractors who have met all local and state requirements. The statute serves to protect the health and safety of all residents living within the State of Illinois. Property owners should ask to see an updated commercial applicator’s license before contracting with any pesticide spraying company.

For more information, call City Forester Larry King in the Public Works Building at (847) 926-1149.

Keeping a Health Lawn
The Park District of Highland Park offers these recommendations for maintaining a healthy lawn, with a minimum of weeds or pests, using a minimum of chemical applications:

• Mow more frequently, at taller levels, to allow grass to out-compete weeds.
• Establish and/or overseed with high-quality, low-maintenance species of turfgrass.
• When possible, look for organic fertilizers and amend soil with "natural" materials such as compost, bone meal, peat moss and ash.
• Water deeply, not often. This regime promotes deep root growth.
• Create ornamental brick or stone paths across heavily trafficked areas.
• Areate compacted areas if possible.
• Convert some locations to low-maintenance perennial gardens where turf establishment or maintenance is difficult (consider adding areas of native plants, trees and shrubs).
• When possible, try hand-weeding. Monitor for aggressive weed growth, pest or disease infestation beyond the tolerance threshold.
• Use biological controls where possible.
• Apply broadleaf herbicides no more than once per year if monitoring indicates the need. Spot treat where and when possible.

Managing Indoor Pests
Many times, when we find pests in our homes, whether they be bugs or rodents, our first instinct is to SPRAY! But exposure to pesticides can pose health hazards to humans and domestic animals. Infants, small children and pregnant women are especially at risk. Here are some tips -- offered with the permission of the Safer Pest Control Project (SPCP)-- for getting rid of unwanted "house guests" with an eye on reducing the need for pesticides.

Before reaching for the spray can or calling an exterminator, ask yourself these basic questions: How did the pests get inside? What do they eat? Where do they hide? By dealing with the root causes of pest problems, you can have more effect than with "spray and pray" methods. After all, if spraying alone really works, why do the pests keep coming back?

Commonsense, non-toxic maintenance and housekeeping measures can go a long way:

• Block pests' points of entry (e.g., with caulk or sealant).
• Store food in sealed containers.
• Repair leaky faucets and broken screens.
• Vacuum, thoroughly and regularly, the areas where pests live and feed.
• Rinse beverage and other food containers before you toss them into the recycling bin.
• Keep trash cans tightly sealed.
• Sweep away crumbs on floors and counters promptly.
• Do not allow dirty dishes to soak overnight in the sink.

If control methods are necessary, SPCP recommends sticking to least-toxic baits and traps--placed where pests, not animals or children, will find them. For more information, contact the Safer Pest Control Project, (312) 641-5575 or check the Safer Pest Control Project.