What is a primary goal of IPM?

A primary goal of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is to enhance the quality of crop production sustainably. This approach emphasizes the importance of managing pest populations in a way that is environmentally responsible and economically viable, ensuring that agricultural practices do not negatively impact the ecosystem or human health. By integrating various management strategies — including biological control, cultural practices, and, when necessary, the judicious use of chemical pesticides — IPM aims to keep pest levels at or below acceptable thresholds while promoting the overall health of crops and the environment.

This sustainable goal aligns with current agricultural practices that prioritize the long-term viability of farming and the protection of natural resources, making it fundamental to modern agricultural practices. In contrast, merely monitoring pest populations, maximizing pesticide use, or eliminating all pests do not align with the holistic and sustainable approach that IPM advocates.