Fact Sheets - General IPM
General Concepts of Biological Control
Virtually all pest populations are affected by natural enemies to some extent. In many cases, natural enemies are the primary regulating force of the pest populations.
Important Components of a Successful Pest Management Program
The lowest population density of a pest that will cause economic damage; or the amount of pest injury which will justify the cost of control.
Integrated Pest & Pollinator Management
IPPM is a new pest management system addressing the mounting scientific evidence of global pollinator declines. IPPM uses basic IPM principles but prioritizes beneficial species for a more conservation-forward approach to managing pests.
Pest Management Decision-making: The Economic-injury Level Concept
Pest managers cannot afford to take a pest management action without knowing if it is economically sound. Treating a pest needlessly is not conducive to making a profit.
Row Covers

Row covers on Utah farms. As an integrated pest management tool, row covers act as a physical barrier that prevents the movement of pests such as insects, birds, and mammals, to host plants.
The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Concept
The term Pest Management came about in the early 1960’s, which then evolved into Integrated Pest Management (IPM). However, many aspects of IPM have been practiced since plants were first cultivated by humans.
Using Degree Days to Time Treatments for Insect Pests
Degree days (often referred to as “growing degree days”) are accurate because insects have a predictable development pattern based on heat accumulation. Insects are exothermic (“cold-blooded”) and their body temperature and growth are affected by their surrounding temperature.
What is Biochar and How is it Used?
Biochar is a charcoal-like product that contains no petroleum. It is made by heating biomass such as
herbaceous or woody crop residues, non-salvageable timber and slash, or animal manure, in a contained system. There are many potential uses for biochar including water treatment, land reclamation, and carbon sequestration.