NMSU working with school districts to implement integrated pest management programs

Schools, like many other buildings, can suffer pest problems. Insects, such as flies and cockroaches, can spread disease or trigger allergic reactions, while vertebrates like mice may cause structural damage or contaminate food.

But sometimes the removal of the pest can be as serious as the health risk. Because children are more sensitive to pesticides than adults, people concerned with providing a healthy environment for students often wonder if there is a better way to control pests in schools.

The answer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is for schools to use integrated pest management, a common-sense combination of strategies that offers safe and effective pest management for schools. Full article.