Extension Assistance for Integrated Pest Management Programs in K-12 Schools

We developed a training and education program in integrated pest management (IPM) for K-12 school building and grounds managers. The purpose of the program was to reduce exposure of children to pesticides at schools. Web-based and hard copy resource materials were developed in a cooperative effort between University of Wisconsin-Extension and the state\u27s Department of Agriculture. Since 1999, personnel at 46% of Wisconsin\u27s public schools have received training, education, and assistance in developing IPM programs. This high degree of voluntary participation is expected to affect pending legislation aimed at mandating IPM in schools