IPM for Pennsylvania Schools and Childcares: A How-To Manual
Explore the principles of integrated pest management (IPM) and develop an IPM program for your school or childcare.
Schools and childcares can use this guide to enhance their IPM programs and train their personnel to become familiar with integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Updated and redesigned in color to include nearly 200 photographs, IPM for Pennsylvania Schools and Childcares: A How-To Manual includes extensive pest management information on common building pests, including ants, bed bugs, rodents, flies, spiders, ticks, and roaches, as well as information about managing weeds and lawn/turf pests on fields and other school grounds. While aimed primarily at school administrators and maintenance personnel, many of the principles and concepts discussed can help manage pests in any building or facility
What’s new in this edition?
Childcare providers have been included due to changes in state regulations.
A new section addressing the role of pests as asthma triggers has been added.
A new section on “IPM for Bed Bugs” addresses a critical need for evidence-based information about the control of bed bugs in schools and childcares.
A new section on “Who Does What?” explains what the legislation requires of the school/ childcare and others.
A new section on “Beneficial Insects and Pollinators” has been added that explains the importance of “good bugs” and the need for conservation and provides tips for attracting beneficial organisms to school and childcare gardens and grounds.
The addition of “How to Develop an Integrated Pest Management Policy and Plan for Your School District or Childcare Facility/ Provider” on page 15 shows the parts of an acceptable plan with an outline to adapt it for your school/childcare.
A sample notification letter for parents and guardians has been added, as well as a sample pest control information sheet used to inform staff and parents and guardians about pesticide applications.
The “Contract Guide Specifications” have been somewhat simplified.
A “Frequently Asked Questions” section has been added that answers many of the questions PA IPM has received about proper application of IPM procedures and interpretations of state pesticide laws.