How does it work?

1. Identify an Objective: Prioritizing which pests require control and then informing residents about realistic expectations in controlling these pests.
2. Monitor: Monitor the populations of that pest and establish tolerable damage levels.
3. Control: Use appropriate techniques and tools to control nuisance species that provide the least disruption to the surrounding environment.
4. Evaluate: Follow up with monitoring to check on the success of the control method used. Was the original objective met? What needs to be done in order to better complete this objective?

Why is it important?

IPM looks at the issue from multiple angles to ensure all possibilities for control are considered and no one strategy is overused. Adoption of unique strategies fosters creation of more environmentally friendly techniques that promote healthy natural communities within Red Deer.

View or download the full Integrated Pest Management Manual (pdf) .

Invasive Plant Management Programs

The Parks Section uses Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques to control or eradicate invasive plants. Control has many forms: Chemical, Mechanical/Physical, Biological, and Cultural.

Chemical:

Although chemical control has traditionally been relied upon heavily, The City of Red Deer is committed to reducing chemical control out of consideration for the environment. The City has a Cosmetic Pesticide Use Policy that guides when and where we spray pesticides.

Mechanical/Physical:

Weed whipping and mowing provide temporary control to areas that are ecologically sensitive or are part of large open areas traditionally managed as grassland or turf.

Biological:

The City uses goats and various insects as tools to manage weeds in our parks and green spaces.

Cultural:

Altering soil characteristics and increasing the success of surrounding vegetation can also prevent the vigour of invasive species.

Urban Forestry Program

Trees are susceptible to disease and can be damaged by insects. Learn more about the techniques that can help you to eliminate or control insects and diseases. Visit Tree Insects and Diseases for more information.

Beaver Management Program

Due to few predators and enhanced environmental conditions (food sources and water flow increase) in our urban setting the result is an over-population of beavers. Visit Beaver Management for more information.