IPM for Pennsylvania Schools and Childcares: A How-To Manual

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About this publication

Schools and childcares can use this guide to enhance their IPM programs and train their personnel to become familiar with integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Updated and redesigned in color to include nearly 200 photographs, IPM for Pennsylvania Schools and Childcares: A How-To Manual includes extensive pest management information on common building pests, including ants, bed bugs, rodents, flies, spiders, ticks, and roaches, as well as information about managing weeds and lawn/turf pests on fields and other school grounds. While aimed primarily at school administrators and maintenance personnel, many of the principles and concepts discussed can help manage pests in any building or facility.

Important changes and additions for this edition (released in February 2020)

• Childcare providers have been included due to changes in state regulations.
• A new section addressing the role of pests as asthma triggers has been added.
• A new section on "IPM for Bed Bugs" addresses a critical need for evidence-based information about the control of bed bugs in schools and childcares.
• A new section on "Who Does What?" explains what the legislation requires of the school/ childcare and others.
• A new section on "Beneficial Insects and Pollinators" has been added that explains the importance of "good bugs" and the need for conservation and provides tips for attracting beneficial organisms to school and childcare gardens and grounds.
• The addition of "How to Develop an Integrated Pest Management Policy and Plan for Your School District or Childcare Facility/ Provider" on page 15 shows the parts of an acceptable plan with an outline to adapt it for your school/childcare.
• The Pennsylvania School Boards Association policy has been replaced with an updated version reflecting the effects of the school IPM legislation.
• A sample notification letter for parents and guardians has been added, as well as a sample pest control information sheet used to inform staff and parents and guardians about pesticide applications.
• The "Intent to Apply Pesticides" page has been replaced with a "Notice of Pesticide Application" sign that is 8½ inches by 11 inches as required by the legislation.
• The "Contract Guide Specifications" have been somewhat simplified.
• A "Frequently Asked Questions" section has been added that answers many of the questions PA IPM has received about proper application of IPM procedures and interpretations of state pesticide laws.
• A description of the Worker Protection Standard is now included.
• There is now a universal poison control number used nationwide: 1-800-222-1222.
• Copies of the acts are included.
• Additional resources have been listed and websites have been updated.