Month: February 2025

What is Landscaping?

Jonah Lawrence

Landscaping Fayetteville AR involves designing outdoor spaces that are functional, meet family needs and can be maintained easily. It also involves a lot of visual details; a landscape should be both interesting and captivating.

Landscaping

A good landscape should have a ceiling of trees, walls of shrubs and vines, and floors of grasses and groundcovers. It should be easy to maintain and complement the architecture of your home.

Landscape design is the creation of outdoor spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It is a complex field that requires a knowledge of both horticulture and design principles. In addition, it involves analyzing the site’s topography and soil composition to determine what types of plants will grow best. Landscape designers also use their skills to create a cohesive design that incorporates the client’s vision and the site’s unique features.

Using the elements of harmony, balance, proportion and unity, landscape designers organize the plants and hardscape materials into a unified whole. They also take into account the natural flow of water and light to create a sense of place.

Homeowners often hire landscape designers to create a visually appealing and functional front yard or backyard. This can help them entertain guests, raise property values and increase curb appeal. Commercial landscapes, such as business parks, apartment complexes and office buildings, also benefit from the services of landscape architects. These designs are meant to attract and retain customers or tenants, as well as improve employee morale.

To become a licensed landscape architect, students must earn a bachelor’s degree in horticulture or a related field and complete an accredited program. Then, they must complete a three-year graduate program to earn a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA). Many programs require applicants to pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) before accepting them into the program.

A landscape architect’s responsibilities include creating a design, selecting the best plants and materials, constructing the project and maintaining records. They must also comply with all applicable laws, codes, regulations and ordinances.

One way to reduce the environmental impact of landscape design is to use native plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. This helps conserve resources, such as water and fertilizers, and promotes biodiversity by providing habitats for wildlife.

Another important aspect of sustainable landscape design is the incorporation of water-saving technologies, such as drip irrigation and low-flow nozzles. Additionally, landscape architects should strive to reduce the amount of waste produced by their work, as well as encourage employees and clients to recycle.

Plant Selection

Plant selection is a critical part of any landscape design. It involves selecting plants that are suited to your environment and are compatible with your intended use of the landscape. This is often referred to in Horticulture as the Right Plant, Right Place concept.

There are many aspects to consider when choosing plants. Besides the aesthetic preferences, plant form and color are important, as is foliage texture and pattern. A plants ability to withstand disease and insect pests should also be taken into consideration. The amount of sun or shade, as well as the soil characteristics, should all influence your selections.

The amount of water a plant requires and the frequency of watering also influences the health and success of your landscaping efforts. You should try to place plants with similar water requirements together and be sure to check the soil moisture levels before watering. Using mulch around the base of your plants will help retain moisture and reduce soil erosion.

Another thing to remember is that a plant’s bloom color can have a dramatic effect on the landscape. You can enhance the color of your landscape by combining plants that flower at different times or using flowers with complementary colors. You can also add interest in the garden by combining plants with varying foliage colors.

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting plants is their ability to withstand environmental conditions, such as heat, wind and moisture. A plant that is not able to adapt to the local climate will eventually fail to grow and will not provide the desired benefits.

Using plant selection tools, such as the Earth-Kind Plant Selector can assist you in finding the right plant for your site and intended function. The tool identifies plants that are climatically suitable for a specific location and provides alternatives if the selected species is not available or cannot be grown.

Hardscapes

Hardscapes are man-made, non-living elements incorporated into the landscape to add structure and beauty. They consist of materials like concrete, wood, stone, and brick. They contrast with the softer plants and trees in the garden, creating a pleasing visual effect. Typically, these materials are durable and long-lasting, making them a good investment for your property. They can also increase your property value.

A patio, walkway, retaining wall, water feature or driveway are just some of the ways you can incorporate hardscapes into your landscape design. They can create a focal point, add interest to your yard, and provide additional living space. In addition, a well-designed and executed hardscape project can increase your property’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

While softscapes change with the seasons, hardscape features are constant. They offer a welcome contrast against the greenery of shrubs and flowers and offer a visual interest that is not affected by rain or snow. Adding these components to your outdoor space can enhance your home’s appeal year-round and make it more usable, especially for parties or family gatherings.

The paved pathways of your favorite botanical garden or the stones that line the pond at your city park are examples of beautiful and functional hardscapes. These elements allow you to move around your yard in a smooth and consistent manner. Additionally, incorporating permeable hardscapes can help you save on your water bill and reduce your environmental impact. These types of surfaces allow rainwater to seep into the soil rather than being sent to sewer systems where it taxes the system and washes toxins into waterways.

Unlike traditional landscaping, which may require the use of fertilizers, herbicides and other chemicals, hardscaping can be done sustainably. When done properly, sustainable hardscaping incorporates eco-friendly materials and a design that supports native wildlife and reduces pollution. Incorporating xeriscaping—using low-water plants and reducing or eliminating the need for irrigation—can significantly cut your water usage and lower your environmental footprint. In addition, choosing local materials minimizes the transportation costs of your hardscape, which cuts down on carbon emissions.

Maintenance

A well-maintained landscape increases the value of your home. In fact, according to research from Virginia Tech, it can increase your property value by up to 15%. However, it is important that you choose a landscape design that fits your lifestyle and property. The right landscaping services can transform your outdoor space into a comfortable and beautiful oasis that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

A professional landscaper will provide a bespoke design for your landscape, taking into account the elements of your home and the surrounding environment. They can also advise you on different types of plants and trees that are suitable for your climate and soil conditions. They will also take into consideration your budget and how you want to use your landscape.

Landscaping involves a broad range of practices and techniques that create aesthetically pleasing and functional environments. These include adding plants, altering the terrain, and maintaining existing areas to achieve a desired result. The process can include constructing outdoor structures like pathways, decks, and pergolas, as well as installing water features. It can also involve creating more practical spaces like lawns, gardens, and tree lines to provide natural shade, reduce noise pollution, and promote healthy living.

The best part is that it does not have to break the bank! There are many affordable commercial landscaping services that can keep your property looking its best. Some of the most important commercial landscape maintenance services include:

Lawn Care: Weekly or bi-weekly mowing, fertilizing, and aerating to keep your grass healthy and vibrant. Planting: Seasonal color plantings to add color and flair. Pruning and trimming to maintain the shape of shrubs and bushes, including dormant pruning in early spring. Irrigation Services: Ensure that your plants and trees get the proper amount of water to thrive throughout the year. Tree Care: Regular trimming and pruning to prevent overgrowth and improve health.

Landscaping is a complex process that requires knowledge and expertise. It is crucial to hire a professional who can manage the whole project and ensure that it is completed on time and within your budget. If you’re thinking of investing in your property, contact a professional landscaping company for a free estimate.

The Importance of Bulkheads Construction

Sonny Lawrence

Bulkheads Construction and seawalls are tall, vertical structures found in marine construction projects. Like all structures, they serve a vital purpose to the communities and ecosystems that surround them.

They prevent erosion on waterfront properties and preserve the surrounding ecosystems. They can be made from a variety of materials, including vinyl, concrete and steel.

Bulkheads increase the strength and rigidity of a structure, helping it to withstand a variety of environmental stresses. Their structural integrity is especially critical on ships, where they provide a crucial safety function by dividing watertight compartments in case of hull breach or flooding. In addition to providing stability, bulkheads also limit the spread of fire and smoke, improving safety for passengers and crew.

A bulkhead can be constructed from a variety of materials, including treated wood, vinyl or concrete. Choosing the right material is essential for creating a durable, attractive structure that complements the design of your property. If you are considering adding a bulkhead to your home, it is important to work with a reputable contractor who can provide references and has a good track record with the Better Business Bureau. It is also important to ask the contractor for a detailed up-front cost estimate, so you can compare the price with other options.

Construction of a bulkhead typically begins with site preparation. The contractor may clear the area and prepare a foundation, depending on the design specifications and soil conditions. Once the foundation is in place, the framework of the bulkhead is constructed. Panels or walls are then installed within the framework, and any finishing touches, such as surface treatments or insulation, are applied.

Many bulkheads are designed to be permanently fixed, but others can be moved. These types of structures are typically placed along the transition between land (filled or natural) and sea in port basins and reclaimed areas. They can also be used along natural or bluff shorelines, where a well-defined separation is required to resist earth pressures.

In addition to protecting against erosion, bulkheads can also be used to protect beachfront developments. They can be designed to prevent toe scour and sliding on subsurface critical failure planes, as well as stabilize slope instabilities and prevent coastal drift.

In addition to enhancing the appearance of a building, a bulkhead can be constructed to reduce noise and thermal variations between different rooms. For example, a kitchen-living room bulkhead can separate the spaces without the need for doors, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of both rooms while maintaining an open, flowing space.

Materials

A bulkhead is a wall that divides space and provides structural support in structures like buildings or ships. It can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the design and environmental conditions. They are generally constructed from materials that are durable and less prone to water absorption, such as vinyl or concrete.

The purpose of bulkheads is to protect property from erosion, mainly on land that borders bodies of water. They can also be used to reinforce the load-bearing capacity of a building by evenly distributing the loads. In addition, bulkheads can provide sound and fire resistance.

Marine bulkheads are often made from concrete or fiberglass, but they can also be made from steel, wood, or composite materials. They are typically built with a pylon or piles (also called walers) that support the bulkhead and provide stability. The walers are usually made of treated timbers, and the bulkhead is connected to these walers with galvanized tie-rods.

For coastal properties, bulkheads can be a cost-effective solution for protecting the shoreline. They are typically built with a retaining wall system that consists of concrete, vinyl sheet pilings, or timber walers. These structures are designed to withstand the forces of wind, waves, and tides.

The first step in constructing a bulkhead is site preparation. The construction site is cleared and prepared, with the foundations laid according to the bulkhead design. A framework is then constructed to support the walls and other components of the bulkhead. The walls are then installed, and the structure is inspected and repaired as necessary.

A common misconception is that bulkheads are only designed for coastal properties. In reality, they can be used to protect all types of properties from erosion, including residential homes and commercial businesses. The best way to determine if a bulkhead is right for your property is to talk with a marine contractor and request a quote.

Marine contractors are experienced in designing and installing bulkheads that can withstand the test of time. They can also recommend the most suitable material for your specific project. For example, they can help you select the best type of pilings for your bulkhead. While wood pilings are relatively inexpensive upfront, they don’t hold up to the elements as well as composite pilings, and they leach toxic chemicals into the water.

Installation

Bulkheads can serve a number of roles within a house, including separating rooms and increasing the structural integrity of the home. They are often constructed with non-combustible materials and meet insulation requirements as specified in building standards. In addition, bulkheads provide fire protection for the first 60 minutes following a fire.

Waterfront homes and businesses are especially vulnerable to damage caused by waves or currents, but proper bulkhead construction can prevent costly repairs and add value to property. A professional marine contractor like Brumfield Construction can help homeowners and business owners choose the best material and design to protect their investment.

In addition to their protective qualities, bulkheads can also add a unique look to a waterfront home. They come in a variety of styles, from wooden to vinyl and concrete, so you can find the perfect finish to match your home’s decor. In addition, a well-constructed bulkhead can be used as an aesthetic accent for your landscaping and yard.

One of the most common roles of bulkheads is to retain fills along the water edge of reclaimed areas and in port basins. They also serve as a separation between land, natural or filled, and the sea in protected environments.

Erosion can be a silent enemy, slowly eating away at the dry land surrounding your property. Bulkheads can help retain soil and prevent erosion from washing away your property’s valuable assets.

The first step in constructing a bulkhead is to clean the area around the hole where it will be installed. Make sure that the hole is a suitable size to accept a PVC bulkhead.

When installing a new bulkhead, it is important to clean and dry the flange and gasket mating surfaces before screwing in place. This will ensure a tight seal. It is also a good idea to remove any silicone or thread lubricant from the flange and nut before reinstalling. These lubricants can cause the bulkhead to scoot out and not seal properly.

Once the bulkhead is in place, it is necessary to add a waterproof seal to its top surface. This will prevent water from seeping through the bulkhead into the wall cavity and causing serious damage. A waterproof sealant can be purchased at most hardware stores.

Repair

Bulkheads protect waterfront properties from the forces of nature, including waves, tides, and storm surges. Like any structure, bulkheads can deteriorate over time due to age and environmental factors, but professional repair methods can extend the lifespan of these critical waterfront structures. Coastal property owners should take regular steps to keep bulkheads in good condition. A professional inspection can help identify the cause of damage and determine the appropriate solution.

When repairs are needed, it is important to hire a company with experience in marine construction. Waterfront lots can be challenging to work on because of the presence of houses, trees, landscaping, docks, davits, outdoor living spaces, underground utilities and other site improvements. These obstacles can increase project costs and impact the safety of all involved. A professional marine contractor will have the expertise and equipment to minimize these challenges and complete a successful repair on time and within budget.

Often, bulkheads suffer from damage that results in soil erosion. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including waterline failure, rust marks and vertical cracks. These problems can be corrected by injecting polyurethane foam, which fills voids and reinforces the bulkhead to prevent further damage.

A rusted or corroded tieback rod is another common cause of bulkhead damage. These rods are used to hold the walers in place and are usually made of steel or galvanized metal. If the rust or corrosion is allowed to continue, the integrity of the walers and the bulkhead may be compromised. A professional repair service will perform a thorough inspection and drilling to accurately assess the damage and make an informed decision about the best repair approach.

The final step in repairing a damaged bulkhead is to waterproof it. This is accomplished by sealing any open cracks or voids in the sea wall and applying a protective coating that will withstand the elements. A waterproofing treatment will also extend the life of the structure and improve its ability to withstand future environmental factors.

Performing a bulkhead repair is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your waterfront home or business. A faulty bulkhead can result in expensive damage to your property and create safety hazards for you and your family. In addition, a faulty bulkhead can damage the environment and cause flooding. By following the six tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your bulkhead is safe and in good condition for years to come.

Steps to Ensure Safe and Compliant Liquid Waste Disposal

Howard Butler

Liquid waste disposal involves specific regulations and guidelines to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection. Each type of liquid medical waste necessitates a tailored approach.

Liquid Waste Disposal

All approved discharges are subject to a strength charge, facilities charge and volume component. Strength charges are based on COD and TSS concentrations exceeding base concentrations. Click Here for more details.

In the case of liquid waste disposal, proper collection is vital. If the waste isn’t collected correctly, it can be carried into waterways and groundwater aquifers. This can cause contamination and pose a threat to public health. Fortunately, there are a number of liquid waste disposal services that can help you dispose of your hazardous liquid waste safely.

The collection of liquid waste from landfills is a complex process, requiring careful planning and adherence to strict safety standards. It requires a team of skilled professionals to ensure that the liquid is collected safely and efficiently. This is especially important in areas with limited space or where the waste can be blown away by wind. Moreover, the waste must be stored securely to prevent leakage or explosions.

Liquid waste is a hazardous material that can seep into the groundwater supply and pollute ecosystems. If left untreated, this toxic liquid can contaminate drinking water and cause serious illnesses and even death. Many factories in Southeast Asia, for example, dump their waste into local rivers, causing severe pollution.

In addition to being harmful to humans, this waste is also damaging to wildlife. It can poison animals and contaminate their water supplies, which is why it’s so important to properly handle and dispose of liquid waste.

One method of liquid waste disposal is dewatering, which involves removing the water from the waste by applying pressure or using centrifugal force. This process is a good choice for non-hazardous wastes and is relatively cheap. Another method is composting, which turns liquid waste into a fertiliser that can be used for plants and soil.

Another method of liquid waste disposal is incineration, which destroys pathogens in the waste by heating it to high temperatures. This method is often used for bodily fluids, as well as dialysis waste. Healthcare facilities that don’t have the equipment to process this type of waste on-site rely on scheduled pickups from licensed medical waste disposal services. These providers are equipped to treat all types of liquid medical waste. In addition, they can collect and transport these materials to specialized disposal facilities for treatment.

Storage

Keeping your liquid waste in a safe and secure location is important for safety reasons. Keep the storage area away from areas where forklifts operate and make sure that any non-waste materials are not stored in or near your liquid waste. This will reduce the chance of an accident occurring during transport or leaking out of your containers during storage.

The best way to ensure the safety of your staff and the public is by segregating your liquid waste into different types of streams, based on its chemical properties. This will help to prevent mixing compatible waste streams, which can cause chemical reactions or even toxic fumes. It will also prevent contamination and the need for reprocessing or treatment, which could lead to an expensive disposal cost.

Your waste management system should be equipped with appropriate storage facilities for each type of waste stream you generate. The system should also be designed to accommodate your unique operational needs and to meet the specific criteria of your disposal vendor. For example, some types of liquid waste may need to be solidified before disposal, as they can otherwise cause damage and environmental harm when in the groundwater or aquifers.

During storage, keep your liquid waste in a cool and well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight, and clear of any flammable materials. In addition, store it in a secure area where only a limited number of employees can access it. This will help to ensure that your storage area is kept clean and that any tagging or pickup procedures can be done in an orderly and efficient manner.

Make sure that any containers holding liquid waste have an accurate label, and that the red-and-white Laboratory Waste tag is affixed to each container as soon as it is filled. The contents of the container should also be listed on the label in case it is needed for identification purposes, or in the event that the containers are destroyed or need to be replaced.

Avoid pouring liquid chemicals down the drain, as this is a violation of EPA, New Jersey Environmental Control Board (NJECB) and Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority (SBRSA) regulations. Only certain waste streams, such as ignitable and corrosive liquids, can be disposed of through sanitary sewer drain disposal.

Treatment

The treatment of liquid waste is an essential process. This ensures that the contaminated wastewater is not released into the environment. This is especially important for the waterways and groundwater aquifers that are near landfill sites. Various treatment techniques have been developed to treat liquid waste, including granular activated sludge processes, shortcut denitrification, and membrane processes. These methods help to reduce oxygen and carbon levels in the treated water and produce high-quality effluent.

Liquid waste can be very dangerous to the environment, and it is a major source of pollution. It can quickly soak into the soil, contaminating the plants and animals that live in the area. It can also carry pollutants to other areas that are far away from the site of the original pollution. This is why preventing the leakage of liquid waste from landfills is so important.

Many communities rely on septic systems for their individual sewage disposal. These are a common and cost-effective way to treat household and commercial sewage waste. But the waste they generate can degrade groundwater quality if it is not properly managed. That’s why the public health department is responsible for regulating the design and construction of septic systems, as well as for the inspection of existing septic systems to ensure compliance with local codes.

Another significant source of liquid waste is municipal solid waste landfills (MSWLFs). These are facilities that take in both solid and liquid waste. However, many of these MSWLFs have issues with the management of liquid waste. Many have trouble keeping the liquids separated from the solids, which can result in a large amount of contamination and problems with odors.

One solution is to use superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) to remove the free liquid from the waste materials. This is a very efficient and cost-effective way to prevent the release of hazardous chemicals into the environment. These SAPs can be added to the waste material before placing it in a landfill or waste container.

In addition to reducing the risk of liquid spills, SAPs can also improve the efficiency of the landfill’s treatment process. This is because the SAPs reduce the amount of liquid that must be removed from the waste.

Disposal

Liquid waste is any residue that comes in liquid form and poses a risk for people or the environment. It can be found in restaurants, car washes and in homes, as well as any industrial facility that uses tanks for oil or sewage treatment. Some examples of this type of waste include sludge, grease traps and wastewater. Generally, this type of waste is stored in tanks or septic systems until it can be transported to landfills for disposal.

Several key steps are involved in the liquid waste disposal process. It begins with collection, which can be accomplished using a variety of methods, including storage tanks, pipelines and pumping stations. From there, the waste can be pumped to treatment facilities where it is neutralized and detoxified. This is a critical step in the disposal process because it reduces the amount of waste that needs to be landfilled, reducing environmental impacts and the cost of disposal.

Once the liquid waste is treated, it can be disposed of in a landfill. However, it is important to note that not all landfills are created equal and some may not be able to handle liquid waste. Many state and local regulations specify that a landfill must have specific features to accept liquid waste. This can include operating restrictions, groundwater monitoring and more. If a landfill does not meet these requirements, it must be closed and the waste sent elsewhere.

Some of the most hazardous liquid wastes are chemicals, including formaldehyde, corrosives, alcohols, inks and dyes, pesticides and photographic waste. These wastes are dangerous for the environment and for human and animal health when they are released into waterways or soil. They can also be toxic for the workers who handle them. Many chemical factories are located near bodies of water, which further increases their chance of contaminating them.

Typically, chemical waste is disposed of via sanitary sewer drain disposal or through a Chemical Waste Program. While this is an excellent way to minimize exposure and protect the environment, it is important to remember that only certain types of chemical waste are allowed for this type of disposal. The Stony Brook Regional Sewerage Authority (SBRSA) will sample any liquid waste that is deposited into the sanitary sewer system to ensure that it does not contain regulated hazardous waste or other restricted substances.

What Is Pest Control?

Sonny Lawrence

Pest Control is the eradication of pests, usually rodents and insects, from buildings and gardens by exclusion, repellents, traps or physical removal. Chemicals may be used but should only be applied where necessary and with a low risk to health.

Accurate pest identification is the first step in any control program. This will help to determine underlying causes and select effective control methods. Visit Our Website to learn more.

A pest problem’s root causes can often be identified and reduced before treatment. This approach can be a cost-effective alternative to eliminating or suppressing a pest population.

Eliminating the food, water, and shelter that pests need can help prevent them from infesting a space. This includes storing food in tightly sealed containers and disposing of trash promptly. It also means not leaving pet food or water out overnight, fixing leaky plumbing, and regularly inspecting the landscape for sources of standing water (such as puddles).

Many pests invade spaces through small cracks and crevices, which can be closed using caulking. This can be done in homes, apartments, and commercial buildings. The same applies to the tiny gaps in roof eaves, which often become entry points for mice and other rodents. Regular inspections by residents and tenants can also help identify and seal such openings.

The simplest and most effective preventive measure is to remove or cover the pests’ access to food, water, and shelter. This can be accomplished by keeping shrubs and trees neatly trimmed so that they do not overhang structures, and by removing fallen branches and debris. It also involves keeping garbage cans and trash bins closed, and regularly removing waste to keep them clean.

Biological control uses the pest’s natural enemies (parasites, predators, pathogens) to reduce or eliminate it. In the case of insects, this may be achieved by releasing predatory wasps or birds that feed on pests, or by adding disease-causing bacteria or fungi to baits and traps.

Other methods, which use devices, machines, or other tools to deter or alter the pest’s environment, are called mechanical or physical controls. Examples include traps, screens, barriers, nets, fences, radiation, and electricity.

Chemical control usually uses pesticides in baits and traps or as spot sprays. Such chemicals should always be used sparingly, in small amounts, and with the proper safety precautions. They should never be sprayed around people or pets.

Integrated Pest Management is a strategy that combines preventive measures with controlled doses of pesticide, and monitoring to track the success of the plan. This can decrease reliance on and the risk associated with chemical pesticides, and can be an important component of maintaining safe working conditions for employees in food plant facilities.

Suppression

The purpose of suppression is to keep pest populations below damaging levels. This typically involves a combination of control tactics, including physical and biological controls.

Physical controls include traps, screens, barriers, fences and other devices that physically prevent pests from entering or exiting a field or garden. They can also be used to alter the environment in ways that make it unsuitable for the survival of pests, such as reducing the amount of available water or increasing the amount of sunlight.

Weather conditions, especially temperature and day length, directly affect pest activity and population size by influencing how fast a pest reproduces or how rapidly it consumes its host plant material. In addition, natural weather patterns such as rain, freezing temperatures and drought restrict the ability of a pest to thrive.

Birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, insects, nematodes and pathogens naturally suppress pest populations through predation, parasitism, herbivory or other mechanisms. Some of these organisms also feed on or kill plants that are not considered to be pests, and some pathogens target specific plant species and suppress their growth.

Biological pest control uses organisms that are natural enemies of a given pest to control its numbers, through predation, parasitism, or the triggering of disease processes. Generally, this approach is aimed at preventing pest problems from developing rather than at responding to an already existing problem. Two of the three approaches to biological control, conservation and augmentation, are practices that are available to home landscapers, while the third, classical or importation biological control, is restricted to scientific practitioners.

Many biological control agents have broad host ranges and can be effective against a variety of pest species. However, some are host-specific and only attack one or a few closely related pest species, such as the tachinid flies, trichogramma wasps, ichneumonid wasps and braconid mites. As a result, care is needed when selecting biological control agents to purchase and release. Similarly, augmentation biological control methods need to be carefully planned and implemented to ensure that the organisms selected will survive and establish a population capable of controlling the targeted pest.

Eradication

The goal of pest control is to prevent and eliminate pests from damaging crops, homes and other areas. A pest is anything that is unwanted in a human environment, whether they cause direct physical damage like cockroaches or mice or indirectly such as pollen from weeds or dandruff from your hair. They may frighten humans, such as spiders or earwigs, or they may bite or sting, and some can carry diseases, like fleas, mosquitoes and cluster flies. They may contaminate food, such as salmonella or listeria from rodents, or stain fabrics and carpeting, like beetles, ants and worms.

Eradication of pests is rare in outdoor situations where prevention and suppression are more common goals, but it is sometimes attempted. In such cases, eradication programs usually involve releasing natural enemies of the pest into an area in hopes they will prey on or otherwise control the population. This type of pest control is often referred to as biological pest control.

Chemicals are another form of pest control, and the most common type used around homes is insecticides. These are usually sold in the form of sprays that can be sprayed directly onto suspected infestations, but they can also be purchased in powders or bait forms to be placed where pests are most likely to be found. When using any type of pesticide, whether bought over the counter or by a professional, always read and follow all label instructions carefully. If you are concerned about the amount of chemicals being used in your home, seek out organic pesticides, which are made from plant materials and are generally safer than synthetic chemical pesticides.

Integrated pest management, or IPM, is an approach to pest control that seeks to minimize the use of pesticides by finding ways to deter pests from entering buildings or areas in the first place, and to use pesticides only when necessary. Simple steps, such as sealing cracks and crevices, storing food and trash properly, and keeping lawns and other landscaped areas neat and tidy can dramatically reduce the chances of unwanted pests entering structures.

Monitoring

Scouting and monitoring are vital parts of Integrated Pest Management, the process of solving pest problems in ways that minimize risk to people, property, and the environment. Detailed, ongoing monitoring provides the information you need to determine if and when control is needed. Using this information, you can select the most effective management method for each situation.

The goal of scouting is to check for, identify, and evaluate the number and severity of pests present in a field, building, or other site. In some situations, scouting may also involve monitoring the presence of indicator species that reflect environmental conditions and provide warnings of impending infestations, such as fungus-eating silverfish in collections storage areas or psocid flies in vegetable crops.

When a pest population exceeds an action threshold, it is time to take control measures. Thresholds are set based on pest-specific biology and ecology, as well as site or crop-specific factors. For example, in a vegetable field with high populations of Japanese beetles, an action threshold might include a certain number of beating sheet shakes (where each beat is counted and the counts are recorded) or a minimum of two insect traps set per site.

Other types of sites and crops require different approaches to sampling. For some pests, a progressive sampling system can be used, where a sample is considered definitely over or below the threshold after a specified number of beat sheet shakes, or by counting individual insects at each trap or glue board. However, the use of this type of monitoring may reduce the accuracy of pest counts if too few traps are placed at each station.

When scouting, a flashlight is important because many pests live or seek shelter in dark harborage places, such as under leaves, crevices, equipment, and foundations. An extendable mirror and a magnifier can help inspectors spot these areas during inspections. A pest log is also helpful for recording inspection results, especially when a treatment is taken. This will help record whether the action taken (such as sealing a crack) was successful or not. This log can also help identify points of entry and maintenance needs for the facility, reducing the likelihood of future pest invasions.