Principles of Integrated Pest Management

Catalog description

Integrated study of pest complexes and their management, emphasizing ecological principles drawing on examples from a range of agricultural, forestry and urban systems. This course is designed for sixth, seventh, and eighth semester students and graduate students. AGECO 457 / ENT 457 Principles of Integrated Pest Management (3) The goal of this course is to introduce upper level undergraduates and graduate students to the principles and practices of integrated pest management (IPM). This course addresses IPM issues concerning insects, plant diseases, and weeds in agriculture, natural systems and urban environments. Rooted in ecology, IPM also addresses the influence of human social, economic and regulatory systems in pest management. Emphasis is placed on the basic tactics and tools of IPM including biological, cultural, legal, mechanical and chemical controls, host plant resistance, pest monitoring and decision making. The overarching goals of environmental protection, economic viability and social welfare are considered throughout the course. In addition, students will learn about IPM program implementation both domestically and internationally, including pest population modeling and the use of internet resources to inform decision makers. Several projects will provide real-world examples. These may include field trips and a semester-long project where students research and solve an actual pest management problem.