Integrated Pest Management Plan

It is the goal of the Oxnard School District to implement this Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan by prioritizing long-term pest prevention and suppression. This will be achieved through accurate pest identification, regular monitoring, the use of established action thresholds, and habitat modification through improved sanitation and the application of mechanical and physical controls. The district is committed to utilizing environmentally responsible pest management practices and the least-toxic control methods available. Pesticides will be used only when necessary — after alternative measures have proven ineffective — and will be applied in a manner that minimizes risks to people, property, and the environment.

Our pest management objectives are to:

• Protect the health and safety of students and staff.
• Maintain a productive learning environment.
• Maintain the integrity of school buildings and grounds.

Pest identification is conducted collaboratively by district staff and contracted pest management vendors.

Custodial and Maintenance staff conduct regular monitoring and inspections for pests and conditions that may contribute to pest issues. All findings are promptly communicated to the IPM Coordinator.

Pest management services are provided through licensed pest control contractors. Prior to entering into a contract, the district confirms that any contractor understands and complies with the training and other requirements of the Healthy Schools Act.

Once the IPM decision-making process is in place and monitoring indicates a pest treatment is needed, the district selects practices that are:

• Least hazardous to human health
• Least disruptive of natural controls in landscape situations
• Least toxic to non-target organisms
• Most likely to be permanent and prevent recurrence of the pest problem
• Easiest to carry out safely and effectively
• Most cost-effective in the short and long term
• Appropriate to the weather, soils, water, and energy resources of the site

The following non-chemical practices are routinely used to prevent pests from reaching action level:

If non-chemical methods prove ineffective, the district will consider the use of pesticides only after careful monitoring confirms that treatment is warranted based on pre-established action thresholds. When pesticide use is necessary, the district will select products that pose the lowest possible hazard and apply them in a manner that minimizes risks to people, property, and the environment.

The district anticipates the following pesticide products and active ingredients may be used during the year. This list includes pesticides applied either by district personnel or by licensed pest control contractors:

Education Code Sections 17608–17613, 48980.3 • Food & Agricultural Code Sections 13180–13188