Pest Management

Pest control can be a challenge on any farm—large or small. Pests, including insects and other arthropods, vertebrates such as gophers and squirrels, weeds, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and veterinary parasites, are an unavoidable part of growing plants or raising animals.

Because urban agriculture often happens in close proximity to people and residences, urban farmers commonly use organic methods or Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to manage pests. IPM is a management strategy in which decision-making is based on biology and ecology. You can learn more about IPM principles here. UC ANR has an Integrated Pest Management Program that features great tools and updated information on new and common pests.

See our Quick Guides and References to identify common pests and learn more about pest control strategies.

Be aware that urban agriculture producers will need to follow applicable pest control regulations any time their products are being sold, traded or donated. For example, use of some pesticides requires special permits or licensing. Locally, each county’s agricultural commissioner’s office regulates and monitors agricultural pesticide use, so that is a good place to start. This office also enforces any local pest quarantines, which you should be aware of before distributing your farm products. It’s important to be in touch with your county agricultural commissioner’s office so that you can learn about any applicable quarantines in your area.