Integrated Pest Managment
1. Inspect and investigate
- Look for signs of pests and damage caused by pests
- Find out where mold, insects or weeds are coming from
2. Identify the life cycle of your pest
- Learn their biology
- How does it reproduce, where does it live, and what does it eat?
3. Know when to act
- It is easier to get rid of a small number of pests than large numbers!
- Rats, mice, and cockraoches can cause dieseases and asthma
4. Choose a control method(s)
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Eliminate food, water, and/or hiding places
- Take away water source
- Clean frequently
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Deny entry - Keep them out!
- Seal with caulk, fill holes, repair screen openings, use barriers
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Eliminate the existing population with traps or biological controls
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When all else fails .. pesticides are a final resort
- Choose the least toxic control first
- Be sure to read and follow the product label
- Use the correct amount
- Wear protective clothing and respirators
- Store and use properly -- away from childern
5. Evaluate
- Check to see if control methods are working
Created by Montana State University Extension Housing and Environmental Health Program
Contact Myla Kelly at 406-994-6948 or myla.kelly@montana.edu