IPM and area-wide population management

Traditional IPM was developed for management of agricultural pests, and the economic injury level (EIL) is its unifying principle. For most of non-agricultural pest species, however, EIL is either zero or cannot be determined. Instead of EIL, a conceptual framework for termite IPM emphasizes the cost–benefit aspect of termite management programs. Baits are considered ideal for termite IPM because they reduce termite damage potential (= benefit) through colony elimination, and because they use less potent insecticides at a smaller quantity to minimize health and environmental risks (= cost). Area-wide projects with baits capable of eliminating colony(s) have been tried in several areas, and successful projects are those with clearly defined objectives, simple managerial structure with one person in charge, and employing control measures with data to support the colony elimination claims. Failed projects are usually plagued by political issues and complicated managerial structures.