Pests & Plant Disease

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecosystem-based strategy that aims for long-term prevention of pests or their damage using a combination of techniques. IPM programs rely on frequent monitoring, farmer-selected thresholds for acceptable crop damage and comprehensive knowledge of the life cycles of pests and diseases and their interaction with plants and the environment.  This information is used to select a combination of effective pest management methods to limit pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, non-target organisms, property, and the environment. Management options might include cultural, physical, and biological techniques, along with the judicious use of pesticides when called for.

The IPM approach can enhance pest management efforts and protect the environment in all types of agricultural and non-agricultural settings. On an organic farm, for example, the use of pesticides would be limited to those that are approved for use in organic production. IPM can also be used in home gardens and workplaces. In all settings, the use of the lowest impact techniques is encouraged.

WSU Regional Small Farms IPM Specialist

As a farmer in Clallam, Jefferson or Kitsap Counties you have access to IPM services through our Regional IPM Specialist, Laurel Moulton. To request assistance please fill out the Farmer Technical Assistance Request form.

Laurel Moulton, Horticulture Specialist, Regional Small Farms Team
Moulton specializes in integrated pest management troubleshooting for small farms with diversified cropping systems in Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties. She has worked in horticulture and botanical fields for 20 years, in such diverse disciplines as providing IPM education to home gardeners and small farms, producing native plants and native plant seeds for restoration, conducting research in native vegetation and agricultural systems, managing noxious weeds, and working as a farm laborer.

Additional Resources:

• WSU Integrated Pest Management Extension Implementation Program – is a coordinated outreach effort by a team of Washington State University Extension Specialists to bring IPM knowledge to agricultural and urban pest managers across the state of Washington.
• Integrated Pest Management for the Home & Garden
• WSU’s Urban IPM and Pesticide Safety Education resources

Where to Send Plant & Insect Samples For Commercial Farmers

The Washington State University Puyallup Plant & Insect Diagnostic Laboratoryis committed to helping the citizens of Washington State resolve their troubles with plants and insects through accurate problem diagnoses. We also provide applicable management options to a numerous state clientele like commercial growers, pest control operators, home gardeners, consultants, county agents, Master Gardeners, and research personnel.

The laboratory is currently equipped to handle samples from Washington State, particularly western Washington State, and not from other areas of the country. To achieve an accurate diagnosis of the problems, samples should be accompanied by detailed information about the problem. Go to “Submit a Sample” for additional information.

Please note that services will not be provided without payment of diagnostic fees. They cannot accept cannabis samples due to WSU compliance with federal policy.