Steven Ash (coauthor and editor) will present this new edition (Taunton Press, 2013) of the valuable book by William Olkowski, Sheila Daar and Helga Olkowski — who pioneered the non-toxic alternative “Integrated Pest Management” approach.

IPM provides an environmentally friendly approach to controlling insects and diseases that can afflict lawns, edible and ornamental gardens, and shade trees, including:  aphids, slugs, moles, root maggots, cutworms, powdery mildew, crabgrass, Japanese beetles, gypsy moths and a host of other pests.

IPM relies on a combination of common-sense practices — using current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. The IPM approach can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden, and workplace.

With 28 years of IPM experience, Steven Ash is the IPM consultant to the City & County of San Francisco, Marin County and other award-winning IPM programs on the West Coast.  He is also the IPM Instructor for the Bay Friendly Landscaping Coalition.