An integrated insect control program for street trees

Over the last three years the Recreation and Parks Department of the City of Berkeley has worked with members of the Department of Entomological Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, to develop an integrated insect control program for the city's 30,000 street trees. The program has virtually eliminated synthetic chemical insecticides as regular management tools on the city's 123 species of shade trees. This program has resulted in lower pest management costs, fewer citizen complaints, elimination of secondary pest outbreaks and a reduction in environmental contamination. By reducing the amount of pesticides used, the city of Berkeley saves about $22,500 each year in labor and pesticide costs. The current program is a synthesis of various non-toxic management methods including biological, microbial, cultural, physical—along with the judicious use of chemical controls, when needed.