IPM- How it works in the Smokies

Abstract

Many of the basic components of integrated pest management have been known for centuries. Farmers have burned fields in the early spring to reduce insects and disease organisms in their overwintering state; gardeners have removed weeds mechanically by plow and hoe; timing of planting and harvest can be planned to escape the most damaging life stages of certain pests. IPM is simply the integration of a variety of control techniques with knowledge of both the host and pest ecology, and the importance of monitoring and long-term consequences. The objective is to minimize both pest damage and adverse ecological impact. The National Park Service adopted integrated pest management as an agency policy in 1980, and in the following three years, reduced pesticide use by 70%. At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, IPM strategies are used for control of exotic plants as well as for structures and forest insect and disease problems.

Parent Publication

• Exotic pests of eastern forests conference proceedings

Citation

Johnson, Kristine D. 1998. IPM- How it works in the Smokies. In: Britton, Kerry O., ed. Exotic pests of eastern forests conference proceedings; 1997 April 8-10; Nashville, TN. U.S. Forest Service and Tennessee Exotic Pest Plant Council: 137-139.