CASE STUDIES IN SCHOOL IPM - Download all as PDF
PITT COUNTY SCHOOLS
IPM Coordinator: Mr. Douglas Price Jr.
Number of Schools: 35
Important Pests: Ants, Fire ants, Cockroaches, Mice
IPM Program:
They switched to IPM after a Pest management operator sprayed classrooms with pesticide that ended up affecting a number of children. The children had chemical sensitivity. Their mom activated other parents who eventually forced the school district to shift to IPM.
The Pitt county schools IPM program uses a combination of in-house technicians for indoor and outdoor pest control and a contractor when needed. Every school is responsible for conducting their own pest control. The central facilities office provides opportunities for custodians and cafeteria managers to learn about pest prevention and control, and supplies any necessary pest control products. Each school has certified pesticide applicators trained in IPM.
Education:
Because of proximity to the School IPM program of NCSU, maintenance personnel and cafeteria managers at Pitt County schools have attended training workshops on IPM. Doug also makes presentations on IPM at cafeteria managers’ professional development workshops every semester to educate them about pest prevention.
Challenges:
The first year was very challenging in creating awareness of health issues related with pests and pesticides, and the training necessary for the implementation of the IPM program.
Comments:
At Pitt County Schools, we feel that IPM is beneficial in creating a healthier environment for students and personnel. As you know, the key to a successful IPM program implementation is the ability to learn and apply what you’ve learned to others. In addition, training should include staff and even parents on the importance of limiting pesticide use by incorporating long-term prevention steps.
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