Integrated Pest Management and Pesticide Safety
The IPM sequence
Identify the pest or pathogen positively before acting, monitor with scouting and sticky traps, and set an action threshold based on damage, not on the mere presence of an insect. Use cultural controls first (right plant, right place, sanitation, proper irrigation, resistant cultivars), then biological controls, then targeted chemicals only when the threshold is crossed. Rotate modes of action to slow resistance, and spot-treat rather than blanket-spray.
The label is the law
Every application must follow the label: site, rate, timing, protective equipment, restricted entry interval (REI), and preharvest interval (PHI). REI is how long people must stay out of a treated area; PHI is the minimum time between application and harvest. These are different numbers and the exam tests the distinction. Check compatibility before tank mixing, never exceed label rates, and calibrate equipment so the delivered rate matches the label.
Safety and records
Oregon applicators are licensed through the Department of Agriculture, and records of applications, storage, and disposal are required. Protect pollinators by avoiding applications on blooming plants and during active foraging hours, and prevent drift with correct nozzle selection, pressure, and wind limits. Keep spill kits on the truck and know the reporting chain for a spill.
Traps: assuming more product works better, mixing incompatible products without a jar test, and ignoring the PHI on a food crop.
Rule of thumb: no pest, no pesticide; identify first, treat last, and always read the label.