Threshold Levels
The point at which pest populations or damage reaches a level that requires action. IPM uses threshold levels to determine when treatment is necessary rather than treating on a schedule.
Detailed Overview
Unlike traditional pest control that applies pesticides on a fixed schedule regardless of pest presence, IPM uses action thresholds to determine when intervention is needed. Thresholds are based on factors like number of pests observed, damage level, health risks, and resident complaints. For example, finding one cockroach may not require chemical treatment, but consistent sightings or finding egg cases indicates the threshold has been exceeded. Monitoring devices help track pest levels over time to determine if populations are increasing, decreasing, or stable.
When to Use
Establish thresholds at the beginning of a pest management program and use monitoring data to determine when action thresholds are exceeded. Different pests and settings may have different thresholds.
Required Skill Level
Requires some training and experience in pest management
Benefits
- Reduces unnecessary pesticide applications
- Provides objective criteria for treatment decisions
- Allows tracking of program effectiveness over time
- Minimizes chemical exposure while maintaining control
Limitations
- Requires consistent monitoring to track pest levels
- Thresholds may vary by location and pest
- Some pests (bed bugs, termites) have near-zero tolerance thresholds
Related Concepts
Other principles that may be useful
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
A prevention-based pest management method that provides long-lasting pest control, improves building conditions, and is less harmful to residents and pets than traditional pest control.
Pest Triangle
The four essential requirements pests need to survive: food, water, shelter, and ways to get around. Eliminating any of these makes an environment inhospitable to pests.
Monitoring and Inspection
Regular, systematic examination of buildings for signs of pests and conducive conditions using monitoring devices and visual inspection techniques.