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Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a growing practice that is being adopted by farmers who are interested in moving away from a heavy reliance on chemical pesticides. IPM techniques include a variety of planned strategies including:

• biological controls such as the use of natural enemies to pests and genetic modification;
• changes in agricultural practices such as increasing crop diversity;
• regulatory actions to control entry of unwanted plants and insects to the United States;
• and when needed, the use of synthetic and naturally occuring pesticides.
  

Proponents of IPM claim that when used properly pesticide use can be reduced by 70% with no loss in crop production or quality. The techniques used in IPM are based on sound ecological principles.

There are a variety of agencies and organizations which provide resources to farmers who are interested in IPM. As citizens have become more health conscious the market for organic products has increased.

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