Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an “effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.“
As beekeepers, we are caretakers of the colony’s health. IPM is an effective approach to managing honey bee pests and parasites. Depending on the situation and timing, a variety of techniques can be applied to address issues in your beehive.
We want the bees to help themselves and intervene only when necessary. This requires a proactive approach to bee management: create an environment that supports and encourages a healthy colony, monitor pest and parasites, and, when necessary, intervene with a targeted approach.
We can help bees thrive by creating an environment with conditions that support their health. For example, plant pollinator-loving flowers and trees, ensure their hive is clean and dry and is protected from extreme weather conditions, supplement their nutrition as needed, and using strong genetic stock.
Effective honey bee management must include pest and parasite monitoring and tracking. Questions to answer include:
- Is the colony negatively affected by a pest or parasite?
- How are pest and parasite levels changing over time?
- Do infection rates warrant intervention?
- If intervention was required and applied, was it effective?
When intervention is required due to pest or parasite levels exceeding the threshold, treatment should target the problem to minimize the potential for unintended consequences. This approach also ensures our treatment plan is applied only when necessary and is not applied too late.
Examples of using IPM in your apiary include:
- Using a screened bottom board
- Insulating the hive
- Regularly scheduled monitoring of varroa mite levels with powdered sugar rolls or alcohol wash
- Using a recordkeeping system to track hive activity, changes in the apiary and hives, and applied treatments.