Cotton Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) incorporates a variety of cultural, biological and chemical methods to efficiently manage a cropping system while lowering dependence on chemicals. IPM, through its multi-tactical approach, may 1) help diminish pest resistance to pesticides, 2) reduce chemical costs, 3) limit personal exposure to chemicals (through mixing, spraying, etc.) and 4) lower the environmental impact of your crop. Pesticides, though integral to today’s agriculture, have come under increasing scrutiny in the past few years. Implementing a variety of pest management tactics can help pesticides remain effective and reduce chances of pest resistance to chemicals. Also, with the diminished chemical dependence of IPM, these same chemicals are less likely to be taken off the market due to their perceived negative environmental impacts. Integrated Pest Management takes an individualized approach to each farming system or crop to maximize pest management and profit. It serves the dual purpose of being more environmentally sound while maintaining profitability by striving to keep pest populations below economically damaging levels. IPM is a growing trend in agriculture, and many state and governmental agencies are lending research and financial support to increase adoption of this method of farming.