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IPM, which stands for Integrated Pest Management, is a program created by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. The purpose of the program is to keep pest below an economic injury level for educational and demonstration purposes. It basically employs tools like cultural, biological, chemical, and regulatory control methods. It carries out its program in association with the Environmental Protection Agency in a compatible manner that is economically and environmentally sounds. Since 1995, the IPM Program has been involved in many cooperative projects with the University of Missouri-Columbia, University of Missouri-Delta Center, Meramec State Park, Thomas Jefferson Institute, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Agriculture Research Service (ARS) and USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service. (IPM)

IPM in School The IPM Program is working with the Missouri Center for Safe Schools on a cooperative Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant titled, "Implementing IPM in Missouri Schools (“IPM”).Instead of routine chemical applications, IPM is the best approach to pest control utilizing cultural, mechanical, educational, biological and physical controls with selective use of pesticides. Chemical controls are used only when needed and in the least-toxic formulation that is still effective against pests. Under IPM, a well-organized and comprehensive approach is in place to prevent pests from reaching unacceptable levels utilizing low-risk control strategies when necessary. IPM is not a quick fix but can be achieved through administrative support, involvement of the school community and communication with Pest Management Professionals. (IPM)

IPM has been adopted in various regions of United Stated and so far has been very effective in managing pests in those places saving tens and thousands of dollars. Through the use of IPM, pesticides use in schools has decreased by 80%. The Montgomery County school district has had an IPM program since 1984-1990. And In a six years period, there was a 90% reduction of pesticide and the district saved over $110,000 in the first six years ("What organizations are," 2011).

IPM uses very comprehensive tactics to control pests in schools and uses pesticides only as a last resort. Along with reducing pests and use of pesticides, It is also less expensive than all the other traditional pest management approaches.