Babson College
OP-9: Integrated Pest Management

Definition Integrated Pest Management is a systematic approach to managing pests which focuses on long-term prevention or suppression with minimal impact on human health, the environment and non target organisms. IPM incorporates all reasonable measures to prevent pest problems by physical, biological or chemical pest population management methods to reduce pest to acceptable levels and prevent unacceptable damage or annoyance. Procedures The campus grounds are monitored regularly by our in house grounds staff who are instructed to report issues to the Supervisor of Grounds Operations. The Supervisor will visually inspect campus and those items reported to him regularly to determine if further action is necessary. If he determines this is the case he will review the issue with the Assistant Director of Grounds, Building Services and Sustainability to determine appropriate actions to take. If chemical means are deemed necessary, the product with the least harmful effects to the environment will be selected. Cultural Practices and Preventative Measures Where chronic pest problems have occurred on a historical basis, preventative measures including chemical applications may be used to prevent damage that will be both unsightly and costly to repair. Dormant oils and non chemical means are used to manage insects at acceptable levels on high quality/visibility ornamental plantings. Soil fertility in lawn areas is maintained with an organic approach to maintain turf vigor and to allow for natural defenses and recovery to pest and disease problems and to minimize use of synthetic fertilizers. High quality lawns and fields are irrigated to maintain growth rate, appearance and recovery capabilities. High quality lawns and fields are aerated regularly to maintain vigor and natural pest defenses. Turf seed is selected for repair and maintenance to have good recovery and wear tolerance characteristics. Native trees and shrubs will be selected for future plantings on campus that are acclimated to the local climate. NOTE: The remaining acres of campus beyond the 145 are forested areas that are unmaintained and therefore not monitored as outlined in the IPM plan.