Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a practice of managing the care of lawns and ornamental plantings from a more complete and proactive standpoint. It includes visual inspections, proper pruning and mowing as well as organic controls. An IPM plan requires a thorough knowledge of common pests and of proper irrigation control methods. The many benefits include:

• Healthy, structurally sound plants, from roots to flowers;

• Reduced use of pesticides, alleviating potential negative effect on
   people and animals;

• Promotion of clean water and environment;

• Better and long-term pest control;

• Reduced cost.

IPM practices have been adopted on campus in the care of ornamental beds and lawn areas. Licensed and trained employees inspect plants and lawns daily. Problem areas are treated with chemicals if significant concern rises for the health of the plant. The grounds crew uses a tree injection system, which treats our trees systemically, rather than spraying chemicals into the air. This injection system is efficient in treating plants with small, but concentrated doses of the product.