Integrated Pest Management Lesson 5.3

Theme Outline Lesson 5.3 Effects of IPM on the Environment and Society Benefits of IPM Drawbacks of IPM

Academic Standards for Environment & Ecology Standard C Determine the effects of integrated pest management practices on society over time. Analyze the risks to the environment and society associated with alternative practices used in integrated pest management. Analyze the benefits to the environment and society associated with alternative practices used in integrated pest management.

Learning Objectives Students will assess various levels of control within different integrated pest management practices, including increased immunity to pesticides, food safety, sterilization, nutrient management, and weed control. Students will analyze the risks to the environment and society associated with alternative practices used in integrated pest management. Students will analyze the benefits to the environment and society associated with alternative practices used in integrated pest management.

Effects of IPM on the Environment and Society Benefits of IPM Drawbacks of IPM

Benefits of IPM Less pesticide residue on food. The EPA considers pesticide residue on food one of the most serious environmental health concerns in terms of the risk of cancer.

Benefits of IPM Less chance of pesticide resistance. When pesticides are used over a long period of time, pests can develop a resistance (or immunity) making pesticides less ineffective.

Benefits of IPM Less Damage to Non-target Organisms. Some beneficial organisms are mistakenly effected or killed by pesticides meant to target other organisms.

Benefits of IPM Lower costs to farmers. Few pesticides used, fewer pesticides to buy.

Benefits of IPM Preserves nutrients in the soil. Planting one single crop year after year depletes the soil of vital nutrients.

Drawbacks of IPM May alter local ecosystems. Introducing predators, parasitoids, and pathogens changes the balance in an ecosystem.

Drawbacks of IPM Can contaminate the environment. IPM lessens the use of pesticides but does not eliminate them.

Drawbacks of IPM Does not eliminate all pests. What is the goal of IPM again? Not eliminate but use forecasting and weather data to devise a plan to bring pest populations down to acceptable levels.

Drawbacks of IPM May lose more crops. Results occur more slowly initially.

Drawbacks of IPM Can require intensive planning. Considerations such as… Knowledge of pests’ biology, their lifecycle, and natural enemies Knowledge of how IPM can be used to control pest populations