Which two practices does a successful integrated Pest Management program balance?

A successful integrated Pest Management (IPM) program focuses on balancing prevention and control to effectively manage pest populations while minimizing risks to human health and the environment. Prevention strategies aim to eliminate conditions that attract pests and reduce their chances of entering the facility, which includes practices such as sealing cracks, eliminating standing water, and proper food storage. On the other hand, control methods are employed when pests are detected and may involve using traps, baits, or chemical treatments as necessary.

This balance is crucial because solely focusing on prevention may not address existing pest problems, while relying only on control measures can lead to increased pest resistance and potential harm to the environment and food safety standards. The combination ensures that pests are managed in a sustainable way that promotes long-term pest control and minimizes potential infestations.

In contrast, the other options, while they contain elements that are relevant to pest management practices, do not capture the essence of what IPM is about. For example, elimination and sanitation are important, but without the control aspect, you may overlook managing existing pests. Similarly, removal and prevention or removal and sanitation do not adequately address the necessity of ongoing monitoring and control when dealing with active infestations.