Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

Which of the following is NOT considered a basic step in an effective IPM program?

1. Monitor the pest

2. Choose control tactics randomly

3. Identify the pest

4. Determine a pest control goal

The correct answer is: Choose control tactics randomly

In an effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, making informed decisions is critical, and choosing control tactics randomly does not align with the systematic and strategic approach that IPM emphasizes. The cornerstone of IPM is to make decisions based on monitoring, identification, and habit evaluation. Monitoring the pest is essential as it provides real-time data on pest populations and helps determine the need for control measures. Identifying the pest is equally important because it allows for the selection of appropriate control strategies that are specific to the pest in question, ensuring effectiveness and minimizing impacts on beneficial organisms. Furthermore, determining a pest control goal helps to establish clear objectives for what the control efforts should achieve, such as reducing pest populations to non-damaging levels or eliminating a specific pest. Choosing control tactics randomly undermines the structured nature of IPM, which relies on careful consideration and evidence-based strategies. Effective pest management requires a thoughtful combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods designed to manage pest populations sustainably and responsibly.