Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests and their damage through a combination of techniques, such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and non-target organisms and the environment (Flint, University of California, 2001).

On September 10, 2002, the Mountain View City Council adopted the following policy requiring the incorporation of IPM concepts and philosophies into pest management operations at City of Mountain View facilities: "City of Mountain View employees and City contractors will perform pest management operations at City-maintained facilities in a manner that reduces or eliminates chemical pesticide use to the maximum extent feasible and practical. Chemical pesticides will only be used in the following situations: (1) the use of chemical pesticides is needed to prevent unacceptable health risks or economic loss; (2) the use of chemical pesticides is needed to prevent the development of unsafe conditions; or (3) where nonchemical IPM techniques have proven to be ineffective at controlling the target pest. In these cases, the City will employ a reduced risk chemical pesticide strategy, which means lower-toxicity pesticides will be used first followed by more potent pesticides, if needed. This Policy applies to pesticide use on property that is maintained by the City of Mountain View and the City's contractors."

The purpose of this document is to describe a program for implementing the IPM Policy. This IPM Plan will provide guidance for City staff and City contractors about the process for selecting methods to control pests, and the process for selecting chemical pesticides, if needed. This plan will also provide guidance about safe use and storage of pesticides, water quality protection practices, and methods for tracking and reporting pesticide use. This plan does not supersede existing laws regulating pesticide labeling, use, storage, and disposal. The goal of this Plan is to be used as guidance and reference for all pest control operations at City facilities. Since IPM is an evolving field, and much of the success of IPM practices comes from experience with applying the IPM techniques, this Plan will be continually revised and updated. The City is committed to implementing a successful IPM program.

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