Pest Smart

Like most people, homeowners in Newton, Massachusetts, aren’t thrilled when pests invade their yards and homes. But they aren’t wild about toxic pesticides, either. That’s what led Newton homeowners to Integrated Pest Management, or IPM. IPM controls true pests by such methods as using the pest’s natural enemies, improving sanitation, or making changes in mowing or watering.

If nonchemical methods fail, chemical pesticides can be used. But they are applied in a safe, targeted way. IPM is now official community policy in Newton. Residents have learned that battling pests isn’t such a battle if they let biodiversity do the bulk of the work and let toxic chemicals take a break!