What must all Maryland public schools have in place regarding pest management?

In Maryland, all public schools are required to have an approved integrated pest management (IPM) plan in place. This requirement ensures that schools follow a systematic and environmentally responsible approach to pest control, minimizing the use of chemical pesticides and prioritizing preventive measures. An IPM plan incorporates monitoring, identification of pests, and the use of various control methods, including cultural, physical, mechanical, and biological tactics, which together promote long-term pest management while prioritizing the safety of students and staff.

Having a well-structured IPM plan is essential as it helps schools comply with state regulations concerning pesticide use, educates stakeholders about pest management practices, and ultimately safeguards the health of the school community. This integrated approach also helps in reducing the likelihood of pest infestations in the future by addressing the root causes of these problems rather than just treating the symptoms.