Best Management Practices, Documents and Forms to help …IPM Management The IPM Coordinator will be trained through a Texas Structural Pest Control Service approved IPM Coordinator

SCHOOL IPM PROGRAM

Best Management Practices, Documents and Forms to help you adopt IPM in your school

S A M P L E P O L I C Y S T A T E M E N T A N D I P M P R O G R A M

Structural and landscape pests can pose a significant prob-lem to people, property and the environment. Pesticides and herbicides can also pose risks to people, property, and the envi-ronment. It is therefore the Policy of Blank ISD to incorporate Integrated Pest Management (IPM) procedures for control of structural and landscape pests.

Pests are populations of living organisms (animals, plants,

microorganisms) that can interfere with the day-to-day opera-tions of the Blank ISD campuses. Strategies for managing pest populations will be influenced by the pest species and whether that species poses a threat to the students, staff, property, and/or the environment. Pest management plans will be developed for the Blank ISD and will include pest management measures.

Pests will be managed to reduce any potential human

health hazards to protect against a significant threat to public safety, to prevent damage to Blank ISD structure or property, and to enhance the quality of life for students and staff.

The choice of using chemical pesticides will be based on a

review of all other known options and a determination that these options are not acceptable or feasible. Cost or staffing consideration alone will not be adequate justification for use of chemical control agents. Selected non-chemical pest manage-ment methods will be implemented, whenever possible to pro-vide the desired control. It is the policy of Blank ISD to utilize IPM principles to manage pest populations adequately. The full range of alternatives, including no action will be consid-ered. When it is determined that a pesticide or herbicide must be used in order to meet the pest management goals, the least hazardous material will be chosen.

The IPM Coordinator, Administrator, and staff will be

educated about the potential school pest problems and the IPM policies and procedures to be used to achieve the desired pest management objectives.

The IPM Coordinator will maintain records of pesticide

and herbicide use and will notify the Blank ISD staff and stu-dents of upcoming pesticide treatments. Notices will be posted in designated areas at each site.

Pesticide purchase will be limited to the amount authorized

for use in one year. Pesticide will be stored and disposed in accordance with the label directions and state regulations. Pes-ticides will be stored in an appropriate secure site not accessi-ble to students or unauthorized personnel.

Pesticide applicators will be educated and trained in the

principles and practices of integrated pest management and use of pesticides. They will follow regulations and label precau-tions. Applicators will be certified and comply with the Blank ISD policy.

IPM Management The IPM Coordinator will be trained through a Texas

Structural Pest Control Service approved IPM Coordinator training course. The IPM Coordinator will design a pest man-agement system and maintain IPM Policies. The IPM Coordi-nator is the person who observes and evaluates the site or di-rects others to do so and decides what needs to be done to achieve the site management objectives.

Blank ISD will contract with a commercial pest control

company(s) to meet the needs of the facility. The contractors will make detailed site-specific recommendations for structural and procedural modifications to achieve pest suppression. The contractor shall provide evidence of sufficient expertise in pest control and IPM principles and practices. (If pest control prac-tices are conducted in house, this paragraph should reflect that.)

The Blank ISD IPM program includes educating all that is

involved in the program. This education should include the administrators, teachers and auxiliary staff.

Pest Management Objectives

• Manage pests that may occur on campus to prevent

interference with the learning environment of the stu-dents

• Preserve the integrity of the buildings and structure • Provide the safest playing or athletic surfaces possible

IPM Cycle INSPECTION – Inspection of all facilities and grounds

will be conducted monthly basis by district personnel or by pest management contractors. A detailed building inspection of each campus will be conducted annually to determine if the building has any conducive conditions for pests and to develop a list of structural and landscape improvements.

IDENTIFICATION – Accurate identification of pest is a

vital part of ensuring that proper control methods will be used. Local resources will be used to help in identification.

ACTION – Habitat modifications, exclusions, repair, and

sanitation efforts will be the first actions considered. Action threshold will be considered before any other actions are con-sidered. Then action threshold will reflect how many pests can be tolerated for a specific site. The presence of some pests does not in itself necessarily require action.

EVALUATION – If it is determined that further action is

needed then there will be a follow up with an appropriate pesti-cide approved by the IPM Coordinator

I P M P R O G R A M S A M P L E G U I D E L I N E S

THRESHOLDS

A threshold is the boundary between a tolerable and an intol-erable level of a pest. The higher the threshold, the more pests can be tolerated. Some level of pest presence, except in the cases of a few serious health or quarantined pests, can usually be toler-ated. Thresholds can be multi-leveled and used to trigger differ-ent types of management actions, including actions other than pesticides.

Schools generally must develop their own thresholds.

Threshold levels developed for a home or restaurant may be inap-propriate for a school. Likewise, thresholds developed for high-visibility/high-maintenance landscapes will differ from those for medium- or low- maintenance landscapes. Research-determined thresholds are available for only a few pests, in part because hu-mans, and managers, differ substantially in their tolerance of pest presence or damage. It’s useful to set your own thresholds for common pests in your school district, especially for key pests.

Setting a zero tolerance for your school district is unattain-

able and not realistic for IPM. Instead, you can list what actions you would take for a specific pest like German cockroaches if you find one on a monitoring glue board. IPM strategies should give your staff guidelines of how to prevent pests and IPM plans should be how you will address specific pests within you district.

Indoor IPM Strategies Typical Pests: Mice, Rats, Cockroaches, Ants, Flies, Spiders, Termites, and Microorganisms Entryways: Doorways, Overhead doors, Windows, and Openings around pipes, Electrical fixtures and Duct (s). • Keep exterior doors shut when not in use • Place weather stripping around doors • Caulk and seal openings in walls • Keep vegetation at least one foot from the structure

Classrooms/Offices: Including Performance Hall, Gymnasiums, Hallways, Offices and Classrooms • Allow food and Beverages only in designated areas • Keep indoor plants healthy • Keep areas dry as possible by removing standing water and

water damaged and wet materials • In the all class rooms store animal foods in sealed containers

and regularly clean cages • In all areas remove dust and debris • Routinely clean lockers and desks • Frequently vacuum carpeted areas.

Food Preparation and Serving Areas: Dinning Hall, Kitchen, Teacher’s Lounge, Vending Machine areas and Food Storage Rooms • Store food in containers that are inaccessible to pest

• Store waste in containers that are inaccessible to pests • Remove all waste at the end of each day • Place screens on vents, windows and floor drains. • Remove all food debris including crumbs • Fix dripping faucets and other water leaks • Promptly clean food preparation equipment after use • Caulk or paint to seal cracks and crevices

Rooms with Extensive Plumbing: Bathrooms, rooms with sink, locker rooms and crew spaces. • Promptly repair leaks and correct other plumbing problems • Routinely clean floor drains, strainers and grates • Keep areas dry • Store paper products or cardboard boxes away from moist

areas and direct contact with the floors

Maintenance Areas: Mechanical rooms, Janitorial rooms, etc. • Allow eating only in designated eating rooms • Clean trash cans regularly • Use plastic liners in trashcans • Keep areas clean and dry as possible • Store paper products or cardboard boxes away from moist

areas and direct contact with the floors and walls.

Outdoor IPM Strategies Typical Pest: Mice and Rats. Turf Pest such as board-leaf and grassy weeds. Insects such as beetle grubs or sod webworms and turf disease. Ornamental pest such as plant diseases, insects such as trips, aphids, Japanese beetles and bagworms. Parking Lots, Loading Docks, Refuse Dumpsters • Regularly clean trash containers and gutters • Regularly remove all waste and paper debris • Secure lids on trash containers • Repair cracks in pavement and sidewalks • Provide adequate drainage Turf: Lawns, Athletic Fields and Playgrounds • Select turf types best adapted for the area • Adjust mowing height to grass type • Vary mowing patterns to reduce soil compaction • Do not over or under water turf water in the “A.M.” • Provide good drainage • Periodically inspect turf for evidence of pest or diseases • Have soil analyzed to determine fertilizer requirements • Time fertilizer applications on an appropriate time • Aerate soil periodically

D O C U M E N T T I T L E

Ornamental Shrubs and Trees • Apply fertilizer to annual and perennials during active growing

season • Apply fertilizer to trees and shrubs early in the growth season

or during the dormant season • Prune branches to improve plants and prevent access by pest to

structures • Periodically inspect plants for evidence of pest or disease • Remove susceptible plants if a plant disease recurs and requires

too many resources to keep healthy • Select replacement plants from among the disease resistant

types

Pesticide/Herbicide Applications The IPM coordinator must approve applications • An appropriate application uses the least toxic and most effec-

tive pesticide or herbicide • Applications should be applied by qualified applicators • Applications will be applied when occupant are not expected to

be present for at least 12 hours. A sign will be posted 48 hours before the application.

• Applications will be applied according to label directions • Proper protective clothing or equipment will be used when

applying chemicals. • Areas will be properly vented after application

Storing Pesticides • Pesticide and herbicides will be stored off site or in buildings

that are locked and inaccessible to all undesignated personnel. The storage area will have adequate ventilation.

• Pesticide and herbicides will be stored in separate locations. • Storage facilities will be such that the risk of flooding and con-

taminating the environment will be minimal. • The storage area will be free of ignition sources • All pesticide and herbicides will be stored in their original con-

tainers with secure lids. • If pesticide and herbicides are stored in occupied buildings

precautions will be taken to ensure that the air in the storage space has no chance of mixing with the air in the central venti-lation system. Containers will be inspected routinely for leaks.

Posting and Notification State law requires schools to notify students and staff of impending pesticide applications 48 hours in advance. Notices will be posted in the areas to be treated. (Please consult state regulations for cur-rent posting notifications.) Evaluation and Recordkeeping • Recordkeeping allows the IPM Coordinator to evaluate the

IPM Program. • A pest management log will be maintained for the district and

kept in the office of the IPM Coordinator. It will include pesti-cide use records that meet the requirements of the Structural Pest Control Board.

• Copies of the Integrated Pest Management Plan will be kept in

the Director Head of School Office and the IPM Coordinator’s Office.

• A copy of the EPA-registered label and the current MSDS for each pesticide and herbicide product used on WA property.

• The Following forms will be filled in the IPM Coor-dinator’s Office.

• Approval for Yellow and Red List Products • Emergency Treatment Request • Registration Notification Documentation • Pest Management Log • Incidental Use Letters • Documentation of Training • An IPM facility inspection document will be com-

pleted on each school campus at least every other year or more frequently based on campus age and pest problems.

• Request/Complaints relating to pest problems • Contracts and records dealing with professional pest

control services IPM Plans for common pest problems This section needs to be as specific as possible. Sample IPM plans have been developed and are found within this document. Pick the most common pests your dis-trict has experienced for the last two to three years. De-velop action steps for how you would react to that par-ticular pest problem indoors and outdoors. These action steps can help you educate your staff, teachers, and ad-ministrators about these common pests and how they can assist in the prevention of reoccurring problems.

Figure 1 is an example of a monitoring device found in a food handling area—this would be considered an building infestation of a common foe—German Cockroaches

Sample PM Action Thresholds

Ants (common house-infesting) Classrooms and other public areas: 5 ants per room Infirmary: 5 ants per room Kitchen: 5 ants per room Maintenance and storage areas: 20 ants per 100 square feet in two successive monitoring periods Outside grounds: 2 field ant mounds per 250 square feet Ants (Carpenter) Classrooms and other public areas: 3 ants per room Infirmary: 3 ants per room Kitchen: 5 ants per room Immediate action if ant colony inside or within 25 feet of any building Ants (Fire) Classroom and other public areas: 3 ants per room Infirmary: 3 ants per room Kitchen: 3 ants per room Maintenance and Storage areas: 10 ants per 100 square feet in two successive monitoring periods. Outside Grounds: Any fire ant mound Bees (Honey) Classrooms, Infirmary, Kitchen and Public Areas: 3 bees Maintenance areas: 10 bees Outdoors: No Action unless children are threatened and to be relocated by qualified beekeepers whenever possible. Handled by a qualified beekeeper whenever possible. Cockroaches (German) Classrooms and other public areas: 4 per room 4-10 cockroaches track down infestations, review sanitation, trash handling, clutter, open equipment, check accessible ar-eas; vacuum and otherwise clean room and apply containerized baits or baits/gels for crack and crevice treatment Infirmary: 3 cockroaches per room Kitchen: 3 cockroaches per room Maintenance areas: 5 cockroaches per room Grain and Flour pests Found in food for human consumption: 1 per package or container Pet food: 1 if escaping from packaging House Flies Classrooms and other public areas: 5 flies per room Infirmary: 2 flies per room Kitchen: 2 flies per room Maintenance areas: 8 flies per room Outside grounds: 10 flies around any one trashcan or 20 flies around a dumpster. Mice: Indoors: Any mouse sightings or evidence of mice (droppings, tracks, etc) triggers pest management action. Outdoors: Any noticeable burrows or activity in student areas Rats Indoors: Any rat sighting or evidence of rats (such as droppings, tracks) triggers pest management action Outdoors: Any active burrows or activity Yellow-jackets/Hornets Classrooms and public areas: 1 yellow jacket or hornet and any area if children are threatened. Outdoors: Action necessary if nests are present in or near student activity area. Trash can or dumpster: 10 in 10 minutes at trash can or dumpster

I P M P L A N F O R O U T D O O R C O C K R O A C H E S

Smoky Brown and American Cockroaches

Smoky Brown Cockroach Blattella germanica American Cockroach Periplaneta americana

Identification: Adults of both species are 1¼ to 1½ inch long and have similar appearances. The main visual difference is the color of the adults. Smoky brown adults are dark brown, nearly black in coloration, while American cockroach adults are brown to red-dish-brown with a cream-colored area on the "shield" (pronotum) behind the head.

Image (s)

Figure 1 Smoky Brown Adult

Figure 2 Smoky Brown Nymphs Figure 3 Adult American Cockroach

General Information: These species are the largest cockroaches normally found in urban areas in the U.S. They can be found indoors and outdoors, especially in warmer climates and moist surroundings. The American cockroach is common in city sewers and basements, particularly around pipes and drains; while the smoky brown prefers tree-holes, lose bark and mulch. Both species can build large populations if uncontrolled and can spread bacteria. Many people have allergies to cockroaches which makes these espe-cially problematic in sensitive environments like schools. The best way to prevent cockroach problems is proper sanitation and cleanliness.

Smoky Brown and American Cockroaches

Location/Sanitation

Suggested Thresholds

Nonchemical Control Options

Preferred chemical treatment(s)

Other chemical treatment options

Kitchen and other food preparation areas

One cockroach justifies monitoring, more than one justifies baiting. More than 10 justifies an in-spection to find out how they are entering the structure, to find areas that are not up to sanita-tion standards and to lo-cate other conducive con-ditions.

Clean up any areas not up to sanitation standards. Get rid of cardboard and other debris that could serve as shelter. Caulk around sinks and cracks to close off hiding places. Ensure no gaps under exit doors.

Use bait stations in rooms not ac-cessible to chil-dren. Use other bait formulations in inaccessible areas where cock-roaches may hide. Use boric acid and silica gel in dry inaccessible voids, cracks, and crevices.

Several pyre-throids can be used around known harbor-age areas. Always follow the label direc-tions. Use these pesticides with care around ar-eas that children may come in contact with. They should be used as a last resort.

Bathrooms One cockroach justifies monitoring, more than one justifies baiting and nonchemical actions. More than 5 justifies in-spection of sanitation in the area.

Caulk and seal all sinks, baseboards, and cracks. Fix any holes or broken tiles.

See above

See above

Food Storage One cockroach justifies monitoring, more than one justifies baiting. More than 10 justifies an in-spection to find out how they are entering the structure, to find areas that are not up to sanita-tion standards and to lo-cate other conducive con-ditions.

It’s best to keep food in pest-proof containers that keep pests out. Inspect for cleanliness. Break down and recycle all cardboard boxes

See above See above

Classrooms One cockroach justifies monitoring with sticky traps. More than one justi-fies nonchemical options. More than 5 justifies bait-ing.

Enforce all food and pet policies in the classroom. Make sure all snacks are stored in plastic contain-ers or sealed tightly. In-spect for cleanliness

See above Pyrethroids should only be used in class-rooms if all other methods have been tried and did not provide satisfactory con-trol.

Utility and other areas

More than one cockroach justifies monitoring and baiting. Look for sources of water or food that may be attracting cockroaches to these areas.

Correct any sanitation problems. Get rid of any harborage sites.

See above See above

I P M P L A N F O R I N D O O R C O C K R O A C H E S

German Cockroaches German Cockroach Blattella germanica

Identification: Adults are 1/2 to 5/8 inches long, light brown to tan, with two dark stripes on the shield (pronotum) behind the head. Females are often seen carrying a yellowish-brown egg capsule (ootheca) protruding from the end of the abdomen. Nymphs are generally darker with two prominent dark stripes surrounding a lighter tan spot or stripe on body midsection (thorax).

Image (s)

Figure 1 German Cockroach Blattella germanica

Figure 2 German Cockroach Nymphs

General Information: German cockroaches are our most prolific cockroach species pro-ducing 3-6 generations per year. Besides its importance as a sign of poor sanitation used by health departments, the German cock-roach has been implicated in the transmission of several patho-genic organisms and as a cause of allergic reactions for children and adults. Prompt attention to sanitation and control are necessary to prevent this pest from becoming abundant at school facilities. German cockroaches do not enter structures from outdoors, they are spread entirely by humans and live only indoors. German cock-roaches spend most of their lives in cracks and protected void areas near sources of food and water.

Tips to Successful Monitoring : • Monitoring stations or units s should always be dated to monitor activity over time. • Be sure to place enough monitoring units to accurately monitor an area. Monitors provide valuable information about pest activ-

ity, so be sure to use a sufficient number of them. Food service areas should have more monitors than nonfood areas. • If a trap is consistently empty, the trap may be relocated to another site. • Create a map of the area that includes the location of the traps. You may also leave space on your map to write numbers of in-

sect per trap for each inspection. It may be helpful to use monitor locators such as stickers. • Monitors should be placed along walls or in corners. • Monitors should be kept out of view if possible. Monitors may be secured with double sided tape. • They should be placed in clean, dry areas close to suspected cockroach harborage. • If possible, monitors should be placed in between resources (harborage, food, and water) where cockroaches may travel. • Monitors should be replaced if full or if the monitor has been wet or is covered in dust.

Tips to Sanitation and Cleaning • Eliminate clutter. Clutter creates harborage for pests. Harborage allows pests to eat, rest, and reproduce in the privacy and dark-

ness of their own pesticide-free zone. Clutter makes it harder to clean. • Wipe surfaces with soapy water followed by a water rinse. The soapy water and rinse helps to remove cockroach allergens and

aggregation pheromones left by cockroaches to attract other cockroaches to an area. • Eliminate food and water sources that can compete with bait applications

German Cockroaches

Locations/ Situations



Preferred Chemical Treatment (s)

Other Chemical Treatment Options

Food Prepara-tion Areas

One cockroach justi-fies baiting and moni-toring efforts. More than 5 cockroaches per inspection should trig-ger a complete review of sanitation and con-trol efforts and possi-bly a more aggressive treatment strategy.

Caulk and seal potential harborages around wa-ter and food prep sites. Keep all food cleaned up or in sealed contain-ers. Clean on a sched-ule, including less ac-cessible areas. Use sticky traps to monitor populations. Use a HEPA vacuum to re-move heavy infestations prior to treatment.

Containerized baits, or other baits applied to cracks and inaccessible void areas.

Insect growth regulator sprays applied to harborage areas. Boric acid dusts applied to dry, inaccessible void areas. Aggressive treatment should include all previously mentioned actions plus appli-cation of aerosol or liquid residual pyre-throids to known harborage areas, rec-ognizing that some may have repellent properties that may affect bait retrieval.

Bathrooms One cockroach justi-fies baiting and moni-toring. More than one should trigger non-chemical actions. More than 10 cock-roaches per inspection should trigger review of sanitation and con-trol efforts and possi-bly a more aggressive treatment strategy.

Caulk and seal potential harborages around sinks and other plumbing penetrations. Repair loose tile and seal holes in walls, etc. See above.

See above.

See above.

Food Storage More than one cock-roach justifies baiting and monitoring efforts. Increase intensity of efforts with higher numbers. More than 5 cockroaches per in-spection should trigger review of sanitation and control efforts and possibly a more ag-gressive treatment strategy.

Inspect for source of infestations in card-board boxes, drains, carts, shelving etc. Re-turn, eliminate and/or report infested items.

See above. See above.

Classrooms One cockroach justi-fies monitoring. More than one justifies non-chemical actions. Bait when sticky trap catches exceed five per inspection.

Review food and pet policies in classroom. Store all pet food and other stored foods in airtight containers. Re-move trash daily, par-ticularly before the weekend. Be sure to inspect backpack stor-age areas. See above.

Crack and void treatment of inaccessible harborage ar-eas with baits. Use discretion whether use of containerized baits are ap-propriate and can be used without being disturbed by students.

See above. Note: Liquid residual sprays should rarely, if ever, be applied to classrooms during the school year.

I P M P L A N F O R H O N E Y B E E S

Honey Bees Honey Bee Apis mellifera

Identification: Honey bees are about ½ inch in length with an orange to yellowish-brown color and black intersegmental bands on the abdomen. The legs, antenna and eyes are black and the thorax, abdomen and legs are densely covered with hairs. They build their nest of wax and nests may be located inside of struc-tures (walls) or trees or hanging from protected locations on trees or other structures. Whether in walls or exposed, the nest is a series of double sided wax sheets that are arranged in patterns. Unlike African honey bees, they will not nest in the ground.

Image (s)

Figure 1 Honey Bee (Yellow Worker)

Figure 2 Honey Bee Stinging

Figure 3 Damage by Honey Bees

General Information: Honey bees are social insects, living in colonies containing 60 to 120 thou-sand individual workers, a few hundred drones and a queen. Like most bees and wasps they will defend their nests when disturbed. Honey bees can only sting once because their barbed stinger remains in the individual or animal when stung, causing the last abdominal segments of the honey bee to be ripped off. This results in the death of the honey bee. When disturbed, a few hundred bees will emerge from the nest and attack the intruders. In contrast, Africanized honey bees are often much more aggressive. Honey bees are the primary pollinators of 2/3 of the food we eat, either di-rectly or indirectly. They gather nectar from flowers to make honey and col-lect pollen from flowers during pollination and use them for food. When there are few nectar sources blooming, honey bees will forage in any source that has sugar, from trash cans to soft drink cans, to sweets like candy and fruits. Man cares for and manages honey bee colonies in hives and extracts the excess honey and pollen that the honey bees produce. The colors of honey are produced by the floral sources from which the honey bees gather the nectar from. Wax, propolis (resinous bee glue), honey bees and queens are other products that beekeepers harvest from the hives they manage. Unlike other bees and wasps, a reduced colony will overwinter, rather than just the queens.

Honey Bees




Preferred Chemical Treatment (s)


Foraging honey bees around out-door eating areas.

One teacher/staff complaint (s) re-ceived, or 5 or more honey bees observed near food or picnic tables.

Locate nest source of honey bees and have beekeeper remove. Good sani-tation and removal of possible food attractants. If nec-essary wash area down.

None practical. Where treatment needed use one cup of liquid soap per gallon of wa-ter sprayed or a soapy foam to treat nest where removal is not practical.

Insect growth regulator sprays applied to harborage areas. Boric acid dusts applied to dry, inaccessible void areas. Aggressive treatment should include all previously mentioned actions plus application of aero-sol or liquid residual pyrethroids to known harborage areas, recognizing that some may have repellent properties that may affect bait retrieval.

Swarms. Anytime found or observed.

Wait to see if the swarm moves on and keep children away from the site. Otherwise, seek removal by quali-fied individual or company. Make a list of available beekeep-ers for assistance, with names and phone numbers.

None practical. None practical.

Foraging honey bees near dump-sters and garbage receptacles

One teacher/staff complaint (s) re-ceived, or 5 or more honey bees observed near gar-bage receptacles.

Make sure covers or doors are closed and well sealed. Use trash compac-tors to package and remove waste from kitchen and other food areas.

None. With repeated incidents, try to locate nest and remove. Treat inside of containers with residual chemical to repel honeybees.

Nest located on or near school grounds or in walls of school building.

Observance of bees coming and going from an opening in a tree or school structure, or report of honey bees in a classroom.

Have honey bees removed by quali-fied individual and seal all outside openings that honey bees may use as an entrance for nesting in walls or between floors. May need to re-place lumber to eliminate nest scent.

Not practical. Where nest in trees cannot be removed, treat with a pyrethroid and soap and seal hole after treatment.

I P M P L A N F O R Y E L L O W J A C K E T S A N D W A S P S

Yellowjackets Yellowjacket Wasp

Identification: Yellowjacket wasps are about 1/2 inch long with distinct yellow and black markings. Compared to honey bees, yellowjackets are sparsely haired. Wings are folded lengthwise, similar to paper wasps and hornets. They make a paper nest, usually located un-derground. Occasionally nests will be constructed in walls or other protected sites. Portions of the paper nest may be visible where it extends beyond its protective shelter. Unlike “aerial yellowjacket” or hor-net nests, exposed yellowjacket nests are not usually symmetrical in shape.

Image (s)

Figure 1 Honey Bee (left) Paper Wasp (right)

Figure 2 Yellowjacket Wasp

Figure 3 Yellowjacket Wasp trap

General Information: Yellowjacket wasps are social insects, living in colonies of hun-dreds to thousands. Like other social wasps, yellowjackets vigor-ously defend their nest against threats, such as people who get too close to the nest entrance. Guard wasps stationed near nest en-trances use chemical communication to warn the colony of in-truders. Hundreds or thousands of wasps can quickly emerge from a nest and attack people or animals that venture too close. Yellowjackets are either scavengers or predators on other insects. Some species commonly scavenge for sweets and protein foods in and around garbage cans and picnic areas. In most parts of the country yellowjacket colonies die out each winter shortly after the first frost. Queen yellowjackets survive the winter in sheltered locations like buildings or outdoors under bark, stones, loose leaves or other shelter.

Trapping works by killing foraging wasps and drawing foragers away from areas of high human activity. Traps designed especially for yellowjacket wasps are available from a variety of sources. Note that some species, such as the southern yellowjacket, are primarily predators and may be less attracted to traps than other scavenger species. While traps may have some benefit in reducing numbers of foraging wasps, they are not generally effective in eliminating entire yellowjacket wasp colonies. There are currently no effective, low-impact insecticides for quickly eliminating underground yellowjacket colonies. Pyrethroid insecticides work well and should pose no significant environmental or health risks when applied directly to yellowjacket nests. Nest elimination should be done during the evening hours to prevent risks to the applicator.

Yellowjackets




Preferred Chemical Treatment(s)


Foraging wasps around outdoor eat‐ing areas.

One teacher/staff complaint(s) re‐ceived, or 5 or more wasps ob‐served near food or picnic tables.

Use yellowjacket traps placed at least 20 feet from areas of high hu‐man activity to reduce the chance of hu‐man/wasp con‐tact.

Not practical. Not practical.

Foraging wasps near dumpsters and garbage receptacles.

One teacher/staff complaint(s) re‐ceived, or 5 or more wasps ob‐served near gar‐bage receptacles.

Ensure lids and doors of recepta‐cles are present and well sealed.

None. In heavy infestations, insides of dumpsters may be sprayed with residual insecticide.

Foraging wasps near dumpsters and garbage receptacles

First sign of ant trails consisting of 6 or more ants.

None. None. Have qualified individual treat nest directly with an appropriate residual insecticide and remove nest afterwards.

What About Stings Wasps, including yellowjackets, paper wasps and hornets can sting multiple times while honey bees can only sting once. (Other types of bees usually don’t sting, but when they do, should be treated like wasp stings.) Honey bees leave the stinger in the skin via a handy barb. Here is where the treatment difference comes in. Immediately after the sting, the stinger needs to be removed. At-tached to the stinger is a poison sac that continues to pump venom into the sting site for several minutes. This stinger should not be pulled out; rather, it should be scraped off. A stiff sheet of paper or a credit card works well for this. A wasp sting does not re-quire scraping. After you have identified the offending organism and removed the stinger, be sure to observe the patient for any signs of allergic reaction. If the patient has a history of allergic reactions, shows signs of severe swelling or has trouble breathing, a physician should be contacted immediately. If the patient shows no signs of distress, the sting area can be soothed by applying an over-the-counter insect bite and sting product. Home remedies include applying a paste of baking soda or meat tenderizer and wa-ter. An antihistamine may also be given to relieve the itching caused by the sting. Sting Prevention A few tips on how to prevent or at least minimize being stung. • Keep sweet items covered. • Bees and wasps, like children, are attracted to sweets. • This includes recycle bins and garbage cans that contain soda cans or fruit scraps. • It is recommended that all outside garbage cans be covered with a self-closing lid. • Don’t walk barefooted on the playground or in the yard. • Bees and wasps are nectar collectors, so they are often close to the ground. • Don’t harass the wasps. • When a paper wasp nest is spotted, it is best to leave it at a distance and have a professional come in and remove it at night.

I P M P L A N F O R T R A M P A N T S ( S W E E T F E E D I N G A N T S )

Tramp Ants Argentine Ant Linepithema humile Pharaoh Ant Monomorium pharaonis Bigheaded Ant Pheidole spp. Whitefooted Ant Technomyrmex albipes

Odorous house ant, Tapinoma sessile

Identification: Generally small (less than 1/8 inch), persistent and abundant ants that are commonly attracted to various kitchen and class-room foods, including sweets, oils and proteins. Tramp ants are usually non-territorial, quick to spread and often found many small nests. They represent some of the most common and important indoor and outdoor nuisance ants. Odorous house ants have a pungent odor when crushed. The smallest of these ants include the Pharaoh ant, whitefooted ant, and rover ants. Each ant species has its own unique biology, food preferences and control methods, so identification can be critical to selecting the best control. The following are general guidelines for dealing with tramp ants.

General Information: Ants are social insects. Their nests or colonies can be found indoors and out, although some species have preferred nesting sites. A nest contains one or more queen ants laying eggs and being cared for by worker ants. Worker ants-- sterile or non-reproductive female ants--tend the queen and brood (eggs, larvae and pupae) and forage for food. Foraging ants can invade households from colonies outdoors.

Nests often can be located by following "trails" of foraging ants. Indoors, ants nest almost anywhere. For instance, Phar-aoh ants readily nest in attics, appliances, linens, heating ducts, wall voids and light switches or fixtures. Killing foraging ants rarely solves an ant problem in the home because the colony remains unaffected.

During certain times of the year, most species produce reproductives, winged male and female ants that leave the nest to mate and establish new colonies. When winged ants swarm in the home, their colony is likely to be located somewhere inside

Ants form new colonies in several ways. Most are started by a newly mated, winged reproductive, now called the queen ant. After finding a suitable nesting site, the queen loses her wings and begins laying eggs, which hatch into legless, grub-like larvae. The queen feeds the larvae as they develop through several stages in which they molt and grow between each stage. Afterward, they form pupae and soon emerge as adult ants. Once worker ants have developed, the queen no longer needs to care for the brood.

Some ant colonies have more than one queen, and mating may occur within the nest without swarming. These ants form new colonies when one or more queen ants, along with some workers and brood, leave the nest and move to a new location. Ant colonies do not nest in permanent locations; frequently entire colonies move from one nesting site to another almost over-night. Particularly during very wet or abnormally hot and dry weather, ant colonies whose nesting areas are flooded or lack food and water often migrate indoors.

Worker ants foraging for food and water become a concern when they infest food or other items in the home. Although most ants consume a wide variety of foods (they are omnivorous), certain species prefer some types of foods and some even change their preferences over time.

Foraging workers of some ants establish temporary chemical (pheromone) trails that help other ants find food and water. These species can "recruit" other ants to a resource quickly and in high numbers. Food is brought back to the colony and fed communally among the other members of the colony, including the queen(s) and brood, a process called trophallaxis.

Odorous House Ant

I M A G E S O F T H E M O S T C O M M O N T R A M P A N T S

Figure 1 Argentine Ant Linepithema humile

Figure 2 Pharaoh Ant Monomorium pharaonis

Figure 3 Bigheaded Ant Major Worker Pheidole spp.

Figure 4 Bigheaded Ant Minor Worker Pheidole spp.

Figure 5 Whitefooted Ant Technomyrmex albipes

Tramp Ants (Sweet Feeding Nuisance Ants) Locations/ Situations





Kitchen and other food preparation areas, classrooms, offices, other in-door locations.

First sign of ant trails consisting of 6 or more ants. When only winged (reproductive) ants are present in such sites, no treatment is probably neces-sary. However, the IPM techni-cian should be consulted to ensure that such insects are not confused with termites.

Remove exposed food. Seal remaining food in air-tight bags or containers. Disrupt ant trails by applying ammonia-based, vine-gar-based, pine-oil-based or other general purpose cleaners. Washing trails with cleaner will remove scents that ant use to return to a site with food.

Liquid or other baits. Liquid, sugar-based baits are best for sweet-loving ants like odorous house, Argentine, rover and white-footed ants. Protein or oil-based baits work best for pave-ment, fire and big-headed ants. Special protein-based baits de-signed specifically for Pharaoh ants are best used for this species. Bait stations should be placed, according to label directions, along edges and utility lines where ants prefer to travel. Avoid using insecticides or cleaning agents in the vicinity of baits and bait stations, as such chemicals can repel ants from feeding on baits.

Locate and treat nests directly using pyrethrins or other low-toxicity sprays and drenches. Nest locations vary by species but may be in outdoor or potted plant soil. Look especially under mulch and sheltering debris outdoors. Nests of Pharoah ants are often indoors and may be found in walls, storage boxes, draw-ers, etc. Non-repellent, residual insecti-cide sprays and dusts (consult with local pesticide distributors or Extension IPM experts) may be applied with care to plumbing and electrical lines, along wall edges and under equipment. For outdoor nesting species, a barrier treat-ment can be applied to the soil and building perimeters. This treatment is most effective when used in combina-tion with baits.

Outdoor areas around buildings.

Usually unnec-essary to treat outdoor nests of (non-stinging) ants, unless nest is adjacent to building and causing an in-door infestation.

Remove ant nest and soil to another loca-tion or to bucket of soapy water.

Liquid, gel or granular ant baits labeled for outdoor use should be applied in multiple locations around foraging ants. Numerous, very small bait placements are generally superior to fewer, larger placements. Bait stations that require less frequent servicing are available for some types of bait, including liquids.

Drench ant nests with short-residual, liquid insecticides.

Interior plantscapes.

First sign of ant trails consisting of 6 or more ants.

Remove infested pots. Disrupt ant trails by applying ammonia-based, vinegar-based, pine-oil-based or other general purpose clean-ers. Washing trails with cleaner will re-move scents that ants use to return to a site with food.

Liquid, gel or granular ant baits labeled for outdoor use should be applied in multiple locations around foraging ants. Numerous, very small bait placements are generally superior to fewer, larger placements. Bait stations should only be used in secure, out-of-sight locations.

Locate and treat nests directly using pyrethrins, or other low-toxicity sprays and drenches. In potted plants, take plants outdoors to secure area before drenching. Return plant when soil is dry.

Electrical equip-ment, wiring, switches, relays, air conditioning units, outdoor lighting, etc.

First sign of ant trails consisting of 6 or more ants; ant dam-age or debris in or around elec-trical switches, relays and wir-ing.

Vacuum debris and clean inside and around equipment carefully.

Liquid, gel or granular ant baits labeled for use in and around electrical equipment should be applied inside closed equipment housing. Insecticide-impregnated plastic barriers can also be used to protect inaccessible wiring and electrical boxes.

Look for indoor/outdoor source of ants and treat nests when located. Apply barrier of insecticide outside and inside equipment boxes to prevent ant entry into equipment. Extreme care should be used when using aerosol or liquid insec-ticides around electrical equipment. Where possible, electricity should be shut off during treatment. Only aerosols with low-conducting propellants, la-beled for use around electrical equip-ment, should be used for this purpose.

I P M P L A N F O R R E D I M P O R T E D F I R E A N T S

Fire Ants Imported fire ant Solenopsis spp.

Identification: Imported fire ants deliver painful stings resulting in a white, bump-like pustule. They make prominent mounds from which they emerge quickly and aggressively when disturbed. Fire ants are reddish brown to black depending on where you reside. Workers vary in size, ranging from about 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch.

Image (s) Figure 1 Fire Ant Workers

General Information: Because fire ants may present a hazard to children who are allergic to their venom, fire ant control should be made a top priority around athletic fields, playgrounds and classroom buildings. Since fire ant mounds are usually located outdoors, emphasize year-round suppression of fire ant activity in landscapes in and around buildings. Fire ant baits provide excellent control and are consid-ered a preferred treatment. Individual mounds may be treated in sites where they are not numerous with baits or contact insecti-cides according to label directions. Visit the Texas Imported Fire Ant page for more information. Locations/Situations



Preferred Chemical Treat-ment(s)


Football/ baseball fields Other high maintenance landscapes

4-5 mounds to initiate bait appli-cation. One mound sufficient to justify mound treatment.

None effective.

Broadcast application of IGR bait containing methoprene, pyriproxifen; or non-IGR products contain-ing spinosad or abamectin.

Other toxicant (indoxacarb, hydramethylnon) baits . Liquid, granular, dust or aerosol contact insecti-cide treatments may be used to eliminate individ-ual mounds. Surface-applied slow-acting, long-residual contact insecticides such as pyrethriods or fipronil where maximum suppression is desired.

Playgrounds One mound sufficient to justify mound treatment.

None effective. Physical re-moval with a shovel.

IGR baits may be ap-plied to turfgrass areas during spring or sum-mer vacations. For fast control, apply non-IGR bait or contact insecti-cide to mounds.

Faster acting toxicant baits such as spinosad, hy-dramethylnon or indoxacarb should be applied around colonies or mounds that extend under side-walks or other pavement areas.

Low mainte-nance areas

More than 40 mounds per acre or where com-plaints are received.

None effective. Regular mow-ing to keep mounds knocked down.

Broadcast application of IGR bait containing methoprene, pyriproxifen, or fenoxycarb, or non-IGR baits with spino-sad or avermectin.

Faster acting toxicant baits such as spinosad, hy-dramethylnon or indoxacarb. Contact insecticide mound treatments may be used to eliminate indi-vidual colonies.

R E D I M P O R T E D F I R E A N T S — S A M P L E T H R E S H O L D S

Building perime-ters

One mound within 10 feet of building sufficient to justify treat-ment. Three or more mounds per building if more than 10 feet dis-tant.

None effective. Broadcast applica-tion of IGR bait containing metho-prene, pyriproxifen, or fenoxycarb, or use non-IGR bait with spinosad or avermectin.

Faster acting toxicant baits such as spinosad, hy-dramethylnon or indoxacarb. Contact insecticide mound treatments may be used to eliminate individ-ual colonies. Barrier treatments using fipronil or other contact insecticide around preimeter walls to prevent ant foraging indoors.

Indoors Respond to any fire ant complaints. Treat when more than one ant ob-served per classroom.

Check all win-dows and doors for tight seals. Check roof and outside areas for mounds and possible entry points. Caulk and seal all suspected entry points.

Control ants out-doors around the building (see above). Fire ant baits applied to cracks or inaccessi-ble voids, follow label instructions.

Pyrethrum sprays may be applied to ant entry points only in emergency situations where fast control is needed and caulking or sealing is not possible.

Locations/Situations


Nonchemical Con-trol Options



I P M P L A N F O R C O M M E N S A L R O D E N T S

Figure 2 – Image of roof rat caught on snap trap

Commensal Rats

Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) Roof rat (Rattus rattus)

Identification: Roof rats range in color from black to gray or tan with a lighter belly. Norway rats are reddish-brown in color and are typically heavier than a roof rat. The length of the tail in a Norway rat is shorter than the length of the head and body together. The tail is also dark on top and light underneath. Roof rats have tails that are dark and are longer than the head and body of the rat. Roof rats prefer areas off the ground and are good climbers. They prosper in attics, roof spaces, and ornamental shrubbery. Roof rats generally enter buildings from overhanging trees or power lines. Norway rats are burrowers and thrive in environments where there is clutter or garbage. They burrow along foundations and under debris. They are good swimmers and may enter buildings through plumbing access points. The home range of these rats may be as much as 50 yards.

Image (s)

Figure 1 Size comparison of commensal rats to house mouse.

General Information: The best method for managing rats is exclusion. Rodents only need a 1/2 inch open-ing to access an area. While inspecting, listen for scratching, look for droppings, damage, urine (with a black light), and rub marks. Rodents will forage on a variety of items, so sanitation in addition to exclusion is critical. Rodents can cause damage by chewing wood and other items. They have also been known to start fires by gnawing on electrical wires. They carry many different kinds of diseases and bacteria that can lead to food poisoning. Take precaution when removing nest material, droppings, or remains. Rats are active at night. If they are seen during the day there is likely a large population, scarcity of food, or illness within the population. They defecate wherever they go, so droppings will be spread across their foraging area. Note that Norway rats like to hoard food so they may relocate baits. Location/Situation

Suggested thresholds



Cafeteria One rat justifies setting traps, improving sanitation, and rodent proofing the building.

Sanitation and clutter control will do a great deal to manage rodents.

Rodenticides should not be used indoors as it can result in rodents dying inside walls and ceilings, where odors prevail. Outdoors—rodenticides can be used, but should be placed in a tamper-resistant bait station and secured to a concrete block. Boxes should be checked at least monthly and bait replaced to avoid staleness in the bait.

Food Storage Areas See above. Exclusion (rodent proofing) the building with hardware cloth, or concrete patches.

See above.

Gymnasiums See above. Identify runways by rub marks, urine trails, or by using a thin layer of talcum powder.

See above.

Concession Stands

See above. Secured snap traps set at right angles to rodent runs. Traps should be checked often. Note: Traps should not be set where children may contact them.

See above.

I P M P L A N F O R N U I S A N C E B I R D S

Nuisance Birds

Pigeon (Columba livia) House sparrow (Passer domesticus) Starlings (Sternus vulgaris)

Introduction: Birds generally considered “nuisance birds” include pigeons (Columba livia), house sparrows (Passer domesticus), and starlings (Sternus vulgaris). These species are not native to this country, and have caused many conflicts between them and man. Pi-geons are represented in nearly all urban and suburban locations and are considered a nuisance.

Image (s)

Figure 1 Pigeon (Columba livia)

Figure 2 House sparrow (Passer domesticus)

Figure 3 Birds sitting on a ledge.

General Information: The presence of these birds in unwanted areas can cause damage to property, and their droppings may create unpleasant odors. Bird droppings can also ruin vegetation, painted surfaces, gutters and awnings, and cause electrical equipment to malfunction. Birds may carry diseases which are capable of infecting humans, and bird droppings can promote soil conditions favoring development of such fungal diseases as histo-plasmosis. House sparrows can damage rigid foam insulation, and their nests can become fire hazards. The first step in your bird control program should be identification of the pest bird; if you cannot positively identify the bird, consult an expert before taking action. The Migratory Bird Treaty and Endangered Species Acts prohibit the trapping or killing of most birds, eggs or nests without a permit. House sparrows, starlings, and pigeons are not protected under these Acts, but may be covered under local ordinances, so be sure to consult with local wildlife authorities.

N U S I A N C E B I R D S





Inside a bus barn or other area occupied by people

Droppings one inch deep or more

Habitat modification and exclu-sion from structures are generally the most effective ways of control-ling nuisance bird populations. Note where birds are roosting, nesting, and landing; look for nests and droppings. Eliminate potential food and water sources if possible.

Polybutylene repellents can be applied to ledges or beams to prevent roosting. These repellents are non-toxic, but feel sticky and unpleasant to birds attempting to land. Apply repellent in tight wavy closely-spaced rows. Repellents must be reapplied with some frequency as they can become coated with dust or leaves and lose their sticky feel. Apply masking tape to the surface prior to using the repellent so that it may be more easily cleaned up and re-applied. Repellents are best suited for small- or medium- sized infestations.

Exterior perimeter of building

Nests found obstruct-ing equipment, gutters or found on ledges.

For window ledges, a ledge made of wood, plexiglass, or stone in-stall a plastic or other hard mate-rial device at 45-degree angle to prevent perching, and be sure ends are closed as well.

PiGNX® is used to prevent the roosting & congregation of pigeons in unwanted areas and has been known to work on all types of birds. PiGNX® Caulking Gel is bio-pesticide for pigeons.

Exterior perimeter of building – especially walkway awnings or overhangs

10 or more birds found per building on three successive inspections.

1/4 inch screen or net mesh is rec-ommended to keep all bird species out of these areas.

See above.

Interiors or enclosed areas (courtyards).

Complaints from staff, 5 or more birds seen congregating.

Screen undersides of rafters with nylon netting, (cut velcro-attached panels into the netting to allow access to service equipment in the rafters).

None recommended.

I P M P L A N F O R B A T S

Bats Brazilian Free-tail Bats Tadarida brasiliensis Evening Bat Nycticeius humeralis Big brown bat Eptesicus fucus Little brown bat Myotis lucifugus Southeastern Bat Myotis austroriparius

Identification: Before attempting control of bats, it is important to know which bat species you are dealing with. A few bats are very rare and are federally protected. It is important to comply with the laws that protect these animals. While some bats are easy to identify, others require training and the use of identification keys. Your local Parks and Wildlife Department, or Bat Conservation International, may be able to determine which species of bats are most likely in your school district. Additionally, bats are identified routinely when submitted for ra-bies testing to the Department of State Health Services Laboratory in your state. Direct contact with a bat may result in potential rabies exposure, so all bats that come in contact with stu-dents, faculty or staff must be tested for rabies. General Information: Bats are highly beneficial wild mammals. Some bat species eat insects and consume up to their weight in food each night. Others are important pollinators. Bats are not flying rodents, but belong to a unique order of mammals called Chiroptera (Latin for “hand wing”). A common myth about bats is that they are blind. Bats have good vision; however, they can also use sound waves (echolocation) to help them navigate and locate food. Because bats are mammals, they give birth to live young. Most produce one pup a year, although a few spe-cies give birth to litters of 2 to 4 pups. Some bat species mate in the fall or winter, but fertilization is delayed and subsequent development of the fetus does not occur until spring. Other species, like the Mexican free-tailed bat, mate in the spring. Fertilization and fetal development follow, and pups are born in the spring or early summer (mid-April to September). By late summer, the pups are able to fly and feed on their own. Bats live in a variety of places including caves, abandoned mines, hollow trees, under tree bark, in palm fronds and in the crevices under bridges. As natural habitat decreases, some species now commonly roost in buildings. Bats are creatures of habit and will return to the same roost year after year.




Classroom, gym, or interior of building

1 bat found on ground Ensure contact has not been made with anyone; Have the follow-ing items available before you approach the bat: a pair of thick work gloves, a plastic face shield, a small cardboard box and masking or duct tape; After putting on the gloves and face shield, carefully place a box or coffee can over the bat, place a sturdy piece of cardboard under the box or can, secure the box and tape it shut; take bat out side and place on a high surface or close to a tree so the bat can crawl up.

Building – artificial roosts 1 known colony or evidence of bats inside building

After observing bat entry and exit points, seal up all other poten-tial entry points using caulk, concrete cements for crack and crevice use, weather stripping, flashing, or hardware cloth (¼ mesh). See steps to evict bats below.

B A T S P E C I E S A N D I M A G E S

Name

Dimensions/Average Size

Description

Image

Brazilian Free-tail Bat (also known as Mexican Free-tail) Tadarida brasiliensis Subspe-cies: T. b. Mexicana (migratory) T. b. cynocephala (non-migratory)

Wingspan: 11-14 inches Length: 3 ½ to 4 inches Weight: 8 to 14 grams

Color: Gray or dark brown to rusty brown. Other: Large round ears and vertical wrin-kles on upper lip; tail projects beyond the tail membrane for about a third of its length

Evening Bat Nycticeius humeralis

Wingspan: 10 to 11 inches Total Length: 3 to 4 inches Weight: 5 to 14 grams

Color: brown to black, ears and wings are black. Other: tail com-pletely enclosed in the tail membrane

Big brown bat Eptesicus fuscus

Wingspan: 13 to 15 inches Total Length: 4 to 5 inches Weight: 13 to 25 grams

Color: Light rusty to dark chocolate brown; individual hairs darker at bases than at tips. Other: Tail completely enclosed in the tail membrane

Little brown bat Myotis lucifugus

Wingspan: 8 ¾ to 10 ¾ inches Total Length: 3 to 3 ¾ inches Weight: 4 to 5 grams (7 ½ to 8 ½ just prior to hibernation)

Color: Brown to bronze. Other: Tail completely closed in the tail membrane

Southeastern Bat Myotis aus-troriparius Endangered

Wingspan: 9 – 11 inches Length: 3½-4 inches

This species has brown fur on top and white fur on the bot-tom or underbelly.

Steps to Evict Bats

1. To effectively evict the bats you will need to use one-way shoots (see figure1). You can make a shoot or one-way valve out of 2-inch (diameter) PVC pipe, an empty and cleaned caulking tube with both ends cut off, plastic netting (see figure 2), or even clear sheets of plastic. Place the tube or netting over the holes in the roof or soffit used by the bats to allow them to leave, but not re-enter the building. If bats are roosting in a long horizontal crevice, place a tube roughly every 6 feet along the entire distance to make sure all bats can get out. For some large areas, netting can be used to form a drape to allow bats to exit, but not return. If using net-ting, make sure it has a mesh of less than ¼ inch so bats won’t get caught in it. 2. Leave these one-way devices in place for at least one week during warm weather to ensure all the bats have gotten out. 3. Once the bats are excluded from the building, begin remediation procedures. Bat guano should be removed from interior structures so as not to attract other pests like cockroaches or flies. The naturally occurring soil fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum, is sometimes found in bird and bat droppings. Although it is generally associ-ated with bat droppings in caves, where humid condi-tions are conducive to fungal growth, caution should be used when cleaning up guano in any confined area to prevent inhalation of fungal spores that can cause histo-plasmosis. • Employees should wear personal protective equip-ment. This should include leather gloves, long-sleeved shirt, long pants and either a full-face shield or goggles and respirator capable of filtering particles smaller than 2 microns in diameter. • Bat guano can accumulate quickly in large colonies. Prior to removing these deposits, your maintenance crew can lightly dampen the guano with water and a surfac-tant (soapy solution) to minimize dust and fungal spore dispersal into the air. • Like other mammals, bats can have ectoparasites such as mites, ticks, fleas, and flies. Depending on the roosting location, a licensed pesticide applicator may need to make an application of desiccant or insecticide dust after eviction to kill parasites and keep them from entering areas occupied by students and staff. • Ensure that the area has been permanently sealed off from the outside to prevent bats or other pests from en-tering the area.

Forms and Documents to

aid in IPM Program

Awareness or Accountability.

A formalized preventive pest control program should be main-tained in the retail food establishment or food processing plant by in-house or contracted services. The food establishment should maintain written procedures outlining the requirements of the program to reduce the potential for product contamination from pest activity or the use of materials and/or procedures de-signed to control pest activity. Pest control activities should be conducted in total compliance with the regulatory requirements of the agency controlling such procedures. In addition, specific programs and procedures should include as a minimum: 1. Pesticide applications made within and/or around the exterior of the retail food establishment shall be undertaken by a licensed pest control contractor or properly licensed or trained in-house employee, where such licensing provisions are required by gov-ernment codes. In the absence of such regulatory requirements, applicators shall demonstrate they have received proper training in the proper and safe use of pest control materials by attendance at a recognized seminar or have documented training and be un-der the supervision of a licensed applicator, where required by government codes. Pesticides designated for “Restricted Use” shall only be used by trained, licensed pest control applicators, where a license is required by government codes. 2. The retail food establishment serviced by in-house personnel (licensed or trained pesticide applicator or applicators) shall:

a. Maintain a file of sample labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) information for each pesticide used and shall maintain pesticide usage records as well as records on maintenance of the safety and protective equipment used. b. Maintain and enforce written procedures for the appli-cation of all pesticides. c. Maintain accurate records of application of pesticides as outlined in section 3.d. below.

3. Retail food establishments serviced by a contracted licensed pest control company shall maintain the following:

A contract describing the specific services to be ren-dered, including materials to be used, methods, pre-cautions, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) required by government regulations.

Sample labels for all pesticides used. Sample labels shall be kept on file for the time specified by regu-latory codes.

Accurate and complete service records describing cur-rent levels of pest activity and recommendations for additional efforts needed to correct conditions al-lowing a potential for pest activity.

Accurate documentation of all pesticide applications, including rodenticides made in or around the facil-ity. Documentation shall be maintained in accor-dance with government regulations and must docu-ment, at a minimum:

• Materials applied • Target organism • Amount applied

• Specific area where pesticide was applied • Method of application • Rate of application or dosage • Date and time treated • Applicator’s signature

A copy of the current liability insurance and evidence of a cur-rent applicator’s license, where a license is required.

All retail food establishments shall establish effective preventive programs for the elimination of pest activity. The effectiveness of the programs shall be measured by the lack of observation of pest activity and evidence. Specific procedures include but are not limited to: 1. If necessary, outside bait stations for the control of rats

and mice. Bait stations shall meet tamper resistance standards and be properly positioned, anchored in place, locked, and properly labeled in compliance with regula-tory requirements. The bait stations shall be installed around the exterior perimeter of the retail food establish-ment at 50-100 foot intervals, where allowed by local ordinance. Properly maintained mechanical rodent con-trol devices may also be used, where allowed by govern-ment regulations. Lids to the bait stations shall be locked with devices supplied by or recommended by the manufacturer. The use of reusable plastic ties or other easily cut or tam-pered with materials shall not be used. Baits used shall be rodenticide or monitoring (non-toxic) feeding blocks meeting relevant legislation or the appropriate regulatory agency. Service conducted on the monitoring devices shall be in line with levels of rodent activity in the stations. How-ever, all stations shall be inspected and serviced no less than once per month. Each service and the results of the service shall be documented for each station or device and maintained on file.

Internal measures shall comply with government regula-

tions. Unless prohibited by regulatory requirements, internal control programs shall consist of the use of me-chanical traps, extended trigger traps, or glue boards, but shall not include feeding stations of any kind.

Internal devices used for routine monitoring purposes should be positioned at 20-40 foot intervals along exte-rior perimeter walls. In any area where there is a poten-tial for rodent activity, such as raw material storage ar-eas within a facility, rodent control devices should be installed along interior walls. The contractor or retail food establishment personnel shall inspect and clean the devices at least once a week.

Pest Control Practices for Food Establishments

3. Maps or schematics showing the locations of the rodent control devices shall be maintained and kept current.

4. A record of the service and cleaning of each rodent con-

trol device shall be maintained in each pest-monitoring device. The service documentation shall include the findings from the device inspections.

5. Rodent burrows, rodent runs, and any conditions attract-

ing rodents or other pests both inside and outside the retail food establishment shall be eliminated.

6. Electric flying insect monitors should be used as needed

to identify flying insect entry into the facility. Units shall be installed so insects are not attracted from out-side the retail food establishment. Units shall not be placed within 10 feet of exposed product in a prepara-tion or storage area. All units should be listed on the Master Cleaning Schedule for cleanout on a weekly schedule during peak insect season. These should be cleaned monthly during off-peak season. Installation and use shall follow all local regulations.

7. Birds shall be controlled by exclusion: netting, screen-

ing, mechanical traps or avicides, if legal and practical. The use of avicides shall not be permitted inside the retail food establishment.

8. All pesticide containers and application equipment shall

be properly labeled to identify the contents. Insecticides or herbicides each require separate equipment for appli-cation. All equipment used for pesticide application shall be properly maintained in serviceable condition.

9. Pesticides stored in a retail food establishment shall be

stored in a locked enclosure, preferably in an outside building away from preparation areas. Easily under-standable labeling warning of the contents and limiting access shall be posted on the exterior entrances to this enclosure. The storage enclosure shall be adequate in size and construction and well ventilated. The enclosure shall contain the necessary materials to control spills or leakage and to avoid injury to personnel.

10. Disposal of pesticides, pesticide containers, and pesti-

cide residues shall be done in a manner that meets all regulatory guidelines and must be consistent with the instructions included on the label for the material.

11. Pest monitoring devices and appropriate integrated pest

management strategies should be properly used to pro-vide ongoing monitoring for pest activity and to design an effective control program to eliminate pests and the potential pest activity.

Pest Control Practices for Food Establishments

Above images all taken by Janet Hurley Top—Elementary campus typical kitchen Middle—Inspection by Pest Management Professional checking for evidence of pests in dishwashing area. Bottom—Evidence of monitoring—this is example of a Ger-man Cockroach infestation.

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PEST MONITORING STATIONS School/Facility: _________________________________________________________ Today’s Date: _______________ Technician: ______________________________

Comments:

Trap # Location Data Replaced

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

PEST INSPECTION/SANITATION REPORT

Date_______________________________ Time: ___________ Inspector________________

Inspection Type Initial Quality Control Routine Evidence of Infestation (s)

Sanitation Survey

Pest Location(s) Pest Location(s)

Ants Fleas

Cockroaches Stored Product Pests

Mice Pigeons

Rats Other

Food Preparation Yes No Receiving Yes No

Equipment clean Floors clean

Appliance drip pans clean Clutter

Floors clean Empty boxes stored in cold storage

Floor drains clean Empty boxes stored away from kitchen

Sink drains clean Student and Staff Areas

Counters/Tables clean Bathrooms clean

Food stored in pest-proof containers Plumbing leaks

Perishables stored in refrigerator Teacher’s areas clean

Garbage removed daily before closing Food stored properly in teachers’ areas

Spillage cleaned regularly Food stored in student, staff, or teacher desks

Standing water Trash removed daily before closing

Plumbing leaks Janitorial closet clean

Windows/Door screened Pest Proofing needed

Gaps around/under doors or windows Exterior

Pest proofing needed Garbage cans cleaned weekly

Storage Areas Garbage cans have lids

Floors clean Lids closed on garbage cans

Floor drains clean Garbage area downwind from kitchen

Food stored in pest-proof containers Garbage area clean

Recyclables cleaned before storing Garbage removed at least weekly

Spillage cleaned regularly Pet waste removed daily

Items stored 6” to 8” off floor Gaps under/around doors

Items stored 12” to 18” away from wall Area is trash- and weed-free

Stock rotated Standing water

Clutter Pest proofing needed

Pest proofing needed Outside eating area cleaned daily

Other Other

Key to Materials/Chemicals Used

Abbreviation/ EPA Trade Name Common Name(s) Formulation* Hazard Classification:Number Registration # e.g., Dragent® e.g., permethrin (Danger, Warning, Caution/

Texas: Green, Yellow, Red)**

Service ProvidedSite Pest Activity Non-chemical Action Materials Used Amount Used Method/

(be specific) Level (see key below) (lb, oz, gal, ml, g) Equipment*

Type of Service Visit

c Routine Service/Inspectionc Follow-up for previous problemc Response to complaint

Contact person:

Yourname ISD Integrated Pest Management means safer, better pest control

IPM Service Report Form

Areas Inspected (Check all that apply)

c IndoorsSite abbreviations: MK - Main Kitchen, DIN - Dining Area, CL - Classroom, BR - Breakroom, ADM - Administrative Offices, LK - Locker Rooms

Developed by Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools - 877-747-6872 - schoolipm.tamu.edu

IPM Service Report Form SWTRC-1

School

Service Address

Problem area(s) if reported

Date:

Time In:

Time Out:

Report No.

*Formulation abbreviations: S - liquid spray from compressed air sprayer, ACC - aerosol crack and crevice, GB - gel bait, GrB - granular bait, SB - station bait,BB - weatherproof bait block, BP - weatherproof bait pellet, GR - granular pesticide, ULV - ultra-low volume space spray, F - fumigant, D - dust, O - other (specify)

**Justification form must be attached for Yellow and Red List

*Application methods: C&C - crack and crevice, SPOT - spot treatment (less then 2 sq ft), BC - broadcast, Fog - fog, BS - bait station, VT - void treatment, BT - burrow treatment

Inaccessible Areas Noted:

Page 1




Service ProvidedBuilding Location Pest Activity Non-chemical Actions Materials Used Amount Used Method/

(Building side, etc.) (be specific) Level (see key below) (lb, oz, gal, ml, g) Equipment*


c Building Perimeters (outdoors)Buildings Serviced:



Maintenance Needs:

Pestproofing:

Conditions conducive to pests (birds, wildlife, termites, etc.):

Hazards:

Other comments:

Page 2

IPM Service Request Form SWTRC-1






Service ProvidedSite Plant Type Pest Activity Non-chemical Actions Materials Used Amount Used Method/

(be specific) Level (see key below) (lb, oz, gal, ml, g) Equipment*


c Landscape/GroundsBuildings Serviced:


Other information:Weather at time of application: Windspeed (mph): Temperature: c Posted Date Posting to be Removed:

Tree or other hazards noted:

Page 3


Recommendations for Action by District:

Action Required Site Priority Comments

Follow-up Service Required? c Yes c No Date Date of next service:

Signature/Title of School Contact Person Signature/Title of Certified Applicator/Technician

Applicator’s License No.




Type of Service Visit

c Routine Service/Inspectionc Follow-up for previous problemc Response to complaint

Contact person:

Yourname ISD Integrated Pest Management means safer, better pest control

IPM Facilities Inspection Form

ExteriorGarbage Areas

1. Dumpsters seal properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

2. Dumpster located adequate distance from doors . . . . . . . c c c

3. Dumpsters on pest-proof pavement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

4. Area around dumpsters free from spillage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

5. Outdoor trash receptacles sealed between use . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Building Features6. Doors seal tightly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

7. Windows seal tightly/necessary screens in place . . . . . . . . . c c c

8. Plumbing and electric penetrations seal tightly . . . . . . . . . . c c c

9. Walls/roof line free of cracks/openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

10. Ventilation intakes screened, unobstructed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

11. Adequate water drainage around foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

12. Exterior free of mildew/mold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

13. Moisture meter readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

14. Roof condition/drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

15. Gutters cleared of debris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

16. Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Exterior Landscape Plants17. Adequate visibility between plantings and building . . . . c c c

18. Building free from direct contact with trees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

19. Building free from direct contact with shrubs/vines . . . . c c c

20. Property free from tree hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

21. Aesthetic appearance/safety features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Pest Evidence22. Rodents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

23. Nuisance birds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

24. Other vertebrates (feral cats, raccoons, bats, etc.) . . . . . . c c c

25. Termites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

26. Fire ants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

27. Other ants/crawling insects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

28. Weeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

29. Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

©2003 Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools - 877-747-6872 - schoolipm.tamu.edu

IPM Facilities Inspection form SWTRC-2

School

Service Address

Problem area(s) previously reported (if any)

Date:

Time In:

Time Out:

Report No.

Page 1

Note: For instructions on completing this form, go to pages 3 and 4.

NeedsOK Work N/A Location Description/Comments




Developed by Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools - 877-747-6872 - schoolipm.tamu.eduPage 2


InteriorGeneral IPM Station30. Food Prep/Distribution Areas

Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Serving line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Cafeteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Vending machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Break room(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

31. Food storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

32. Utility rooms/closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

33. Bathrooms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

34. Classrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

c c c

c c c

c c c

c c c

c c c

35. Athletic facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Locker room(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Main gymnasium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

36. Administrative area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

37. Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Pest Evidence38. c Rodents . . . . . . . . . .

39. c Termites . . . . . . . . . .

40. c Fire ants . . . . . . . . . .

41. c Other ants . . . . . . .

42. c Cockroaches . . . .

43. c Crickets . . . . . . . . . .

44. c Spiders . . . . . . . . . . .

45. c Other . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46. c Other . . . . . . . . . . . . .

47. c Other . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Type (species) Problem Location Description/Comments

Recommendations for Action by District (Maintenance Needs)*

Action Required Site Priority Comments

*All action recommendations should be numbered by priority. Priority may be based on combination of urgency, need, cost and practicality.



IPM Program Assessment48. Administrative Procedures

Pest siting log in use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Parental notification on file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Notice of pest control service posted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Designated contact person . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Service reports maintained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

49. IPM servicesSticky traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

serviced/replaced monthly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

out of sight/reach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Light trapspositioned properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

serviced monthly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Bait stationsout of sight/reach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

serviced monthly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

replaced when damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Required recordkeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Safety procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c c c

Date of Inspection: Follow-up Service Required? Approximate Date of Next Inspection:

Signature/Title of School Contact Person Signature/Title of Inspector


Inspection Form InstructionsIPM facilities inspections provide the school district facilities manager or IPM program coordinator with an overall report on the state of

a school campus or facility with special attention to pest control. Emphasis of the report is on building features that are critical to theoverall success of pest management. Chemical pest control is no substitute for pest prevention and pest proofing. Properly maintainedand sealed buildings will eliminate the need for pesticides in most cases.

In addition to an inspection checklist, this form provides space for listing the most important maintenance and sanitation needs forsuccessful pest management. This list is a subjective summary of maintenance needs that can be used by school district maintenancesupervisors to set priorities for facility repairs and upgrades.

This inspection form is intended for annual or semi-annual campus inspections. More frequent IPM services should use the IPM ServiceReport Form, SWTRC-1.

Exterior Garbage AreasItem 1. Dumpsters that fail to seal completely can provide a food source for rodents, birds, flies and other pests.Item 2. Dumpsters located too close to doors result in greater likelihood of fly infestations indoors. A minimum space of 50 ft. between

dumpsters or garbage and doors is recommended.Item 3. Dumpsters situated on soil or damaged pavement encourage rodent burrowing and may result in large rodent populations.

Dumpsters should always be situated on concrete or well-maintained asphalt pads.Item 4. All garbage receptacles should be cleaned periodically and the surrounding area kept free of trash and spills. Overflowing trash

receptacles suggest need for more receptacle capacity or more frequent pickup.Item 5. Garbage cans should be fitted with attached lids to discourage wasps, bees and other pests. Self-closing lids are usually preferable.

Exterior Building FeaturesItem 6. If light is visible under doors, weatherstripping should be installed to prevent entry of rodents and crawling insects and spiders.Item 7. Screens should be present, tightly fitted and in good repair, on all exterior windows that open. Check condition of caulk and seals

around all window frames.Item 8. Points at which plumbing and electrical or cable services enter the building should be tightly sealed to prevent pest entry. Item 9. In addition to checking for flaws in building seals at ground level, the inspector should check electrical service entry points and

flashing on roofs and upper walls of buildings. Ladders or roof entry may be required for a complete inspection. Binoculars mayalso aid rapid inspections.

Item 10. Ventilation intakes should be adequately screened and free from obstruction. Window screen may be needed to keep smallerflying insects from gaining entry. Outdoor lighting should be directed away from air intakes to minimize attraction of night-flyinginsects to vents.

Item 11. Ground should always slope away from building foundations. Note low areas or standing water next to foundations. Highmoisture areas may be more prone to termites and promote mold and mildew.

Item 12. Black stains on brick or concrete walls may indicate poor roof or foundation drainage.Item 13. Electronic moisture meters are useful tools for detecting leaks and higher than normal moisture in walls, roofs, etc.Item 14. Roofs should be in good condition and drain properly. Winter is a good time to check for ice dams and indoor leaks.Item 15. Clogged gutters increase the chance of wood rot and water damage to exterior walls. Make sure gutters are clear and drain freely.Item 16. Note any other conditions that may be conducive to pests, such as wood in direct contact with soil, soil or mulch that extends

above the top of the foundation, need for insect-proof lighting, etc.

Inspection Form Instructions (continued)

Exterior Landscape PlantsItem 17. The inspector should be able to see all sections of building foundations to inspect for termites, rodents and other pests.Items 18-19. To minimize entry of crawling insects such as ants, building should not contact trees or shrubs.Item 20. Make note of diseased or damaged trees or limbs that might pose hazards to passersby or to the building itself. Do trees or

shrubs obstruct doorways, especially infrequently used fire exits?Item 21. To maintain an attractive facility appearance, check that all plants are pruned properly and weeds controlled. Look for areas of

overgrown plants and reduced visibility posing a security hazard to pedestrians.

Exterior Pest EvidenceItem 22. Look for burrows, evidence of gnawing on doors and other entry points, fecal pellets, rub marks around cracks and entries,

reports of rodent sightings.Items 23-24. Note roosting sites and evidence of excessive droppings from starlings, grackles, pigeons and other nuisance birds. Look for

droppings and other signs of feral dogs and cats, raccoons, opossums, etc. Check attic areas for evidence of bat roosting.Item 25. Look for termite tubes along outside foundation walls. A screwdriver or other sharp probe should be used to test wood that is in

contact with soil or otherwise suspect.Item 26. In areas where fire ants are found, look for mounds with no obvious single point of entry. Fire ants respond vigorously to mound

disturbance and have a painful sting.Items 27-29. Look for ant trails around windows, electrical or plumbing lines and building edges. Turn over bricks, stone, mulch, etc. when

inspecting for other crawling pests.

General Interior IPM SanitationFor all indoor areas, make sure that pheromone and sticky traps are clean and replaced as necessary. Check bait stations and note

service dates on the station cover. Minimum inspection equipment should consist of a flashlight and this form. Item 30. Make note of sanitation or pest management deficiencies. Be specific about locations, so a manager can find and recognize

problem areas. Examples of possible problems might include need for caulking or other pest proofing, exposed food, improperfood storage practices, spilled food and grease or organic debris buildup, especially in drains. Recycling bins for cans and othercontainers containing sweets or food for roaches and ants should sit away from potential pest harborage areas, sinks, etc.Report such conditions even if there is no sign of pest activity. Report signs of pest activity separately below, under pestevidence. Check that garbage and trash receptacles are clean and have intact liners.

Item 31. All food in storage areas should be off the floor and easily inspected. Remove and discard cardboard boxes and otherunnecessary packaging to minimize hiding places for pests. Rotate food regularly, and place new cans and boxes at thebacks of shelves.

Item 32. Inspect utility rooms for general cleanliness and pest proofing. Mops and other cleaning supplies should be stored clean and offthe floor. Drains should be clean and screened to exclude roaches and other pests.

Item 33. Check condition of caulking and sealing.Items 34-37. Areas with food should be cleaned and swept daily. Pet food and other food should be sealed in pest-proof containers.

Windows, screens and doors should fit tightly. Make note of cluttered and inaccessible areas. Trash cans should have liners.

Interior Pest EvidenceItem 38. Look for fecal droppings, urine stains (UVB blacklight inspection only), rub marks, gnawing, damaged food containers, tracks,

etc. Make sure bait stations are maintained and service dates documented.Item 39. Termite activity may occur at any time of year, but is most likely to be noted in the spring when most swarming occurs.

Distinguish termites from ants by their lack of pinched waist. Look for unusual wavy appearance on painted wood or gypsumsheetrock. Unusual mud crusts on walls or wood may indicate termite activity and usually occurs just prior to swarming.Report precise location of any termite activity.

Items 40-41. Note trails of fire ants or other ants. Accurate species identification may be essential for selecting the best bait or othercontrol method.

Item 42. Look for fecal specks around cracks and other harborage entrances. Species identification is important and will determine baitselection and areas in which to focus control efforts.

Item 43. Species identification can assist in determining source of infestation. Field crickets are usually attracted to lighted buildings atnight. Make note of possible entry points around lights or lighted entrances. House and camel crickets may breed indoors.

Item 44. Spiders are usually harmless and are best disposed of by mopping or vacuuming. Confirm spiders are non-venomous.Use sticky traps to survey spider populations.

Recommendations for ActionThe IPM technician can make recommendations for actions to be taken by the school district to improve pest control. These actions

normally include only those building improvements that are beyond the scope of the pest management contractor or in-house pestmanagement staff. Repairs or improvements that will be made at a later date by the technician, such as caulking or sealing, should benoted as such.

Priorities are assigned by the pest management technician and may not be identical to those assigned by facility managers.

IPM Program AssessmentItem 48. Each school office should have a manual or computerized pest problem log that can be easily accessed by the pest control

technician. Other paperwork (as required by each state or school district) should also be on file. Staff should be aware of thedesignated pest control contact person at each facility. Copies of all service reports should be maintained in an accessible file.

Item 49. Report the overall service condition of sticky and light traps, bait stations and records maintained by the pest control technician.Poorly maintained equipment is a sign of inadequate service. Check that safety procedures are maintained and followed.

If serious problems are identified, set an approximate date for a follow-up.



School IPM Resources

University of Florida http://schoolipm.ifas.ufl.edu

Texas AgriLife Extension

Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools http://schoolipm.tamu.edu

Auburn University

http://ag.auburn.edu/enpl/scholipm

eXtension https://www.extension.org/

The IPM Institute of North America

http://www.ipminstitute.org/school_directory.htm

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – School IPM http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ipm/

National Information System for the Regional IPM Centers

http://www.ipmcenters.org/