MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a tactic used in an integrated pest management strategy?

1. Host resistance

2. Cultural control

3. Routine pesticide spraying

4. Mechanical control

The correct answer is: Routine pesticide spraying

In an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, the goal is to use a combination of practices that are environmentally friendly and sustainable to manage pest populations effectively. Routine pesticide spraying does not align with the principles of IPM because it often relies on a single method of control that can lead to pesticide resistance in pests, negative impacts on non-target species, and harm to the ecosystem. IPM focuses on multiple tactics that emphasize prevention and monitoring. Host resistance involves selecting or breeding plants that are less susceptible to pests. Cultural control encompasses practices such as crop rotation, proper sanitation, and altering planting times to reduce pest populations. Mechanical control includes physical methods like traps or barriers to manage pests without chemicals. In contrast, routine pesticide spraying implies an ongoing, possibly indiscriminate application of chemicals, which is not a strategic or sustainable approach to pest management as recommended by IPM.