1. WESTERN REGION ANT WORKSHOP
Funded by USDA/CREES
Western Region IPM

2. Objectives Ant experts in the Western US dealing with IPM
Identify data gaps and research needs
Basic – biology, ecology, and behavior
Applied research – IPM, water quality, environment
Extension and outreach
Prepare a comprehensive research proposal for the Western Region

3. Importance of Ants in Urban Settings
Industry surveys indicate that ants are now as important as termites
Cost of red imported fire ant in CA ~ $258 million (Klotz et al. 1999)
Invasive ant species
Ant treatments may contribute to insecticide run-off in urban water sheds (Moran 2005)

4. Comprehensive survey of Urban ants
Little information is known about most species
Effective baits are somewhat limited
IPM programs are only developed for RIFA

5. DIVERSE ANT HABITATS

6. Argentine ants Red imported fire ant Camponotus modoc
Odorous house ant southern fire ant Brachymyrmex
patagonicus

7. Common Approaches Habitat modification Biological Control
Control Strategies
Baits
Perimeter treatments
Spot treatments (structural guidelines)
Reduction in potential water-run off
Cost Effective IPM programs

8. Environmental Issues

9. Extension and Outreach Activities
Pest Management Professionals
Cost effective IPM!!
Incorporation into existing models
Homeowner
Identifying the problem
Considering alternative solutions
Practical!
Cost effective!!