DATE:     8/9/99
CONTACT:  Leslie Godfrey, (803) 736-7680 
WRITER:   Elizabeth Kane, (864) 646-2150

State Alliance Reducing Pesticide Risks in Schools 

     COLUMBIA -- Schools present a challenge for pest management.
     Unlike the farm, where a few pests may be tolerated, no 
responsible teacher or principal would allow roaches or rodents
in a classroom, cafeteria or playground. At the same time,
schools recognize that pesticides are toxic by nature and must be
used with the greatest care.
     "Schools present one of the most challenging environments
for pest management," said Leslie Godfrey, reduced risk
specialist with Clemson University's Department of Pesticide
Regulation.  
     "We must protect our children from pests that can spread
illness and disease. At the same time, we recognize the concerns
of parents, teachers and administrators about pest control
methods." 
     Godfrey said she is working with school districts across the
state to implement reduced-risk pesticide programs to help ensure
that South Carolina schools do not put children at risk from
exposure to pesticides. Called Integrated Pest Management, these
reduced-risk strategies blend proper planning, pest prevention, 
natural pest controls, cultural and mechanical controls, and
careful use of least-toxic pesticides.
     Godfrey said an example of an IPM tactic might be as simple
as pest prevention -- eliminating entry points, and food, water
and harborage sites. She added that IPM can and does include the
cautious use of pesticides when other control measures are not 
feasible, and always with a preference toward the least toxic 
alternative.
     With support from the state Department of Education, the 
Department of Pesticide Regulation has been working with school 
districts to first identify problems, and then together to
develop solutions that reduce risk to students, employees and the 
environment.
     John Kent, director of school facilities with the Department
of Education, said some school districts are already using many
of the concepts of IPM, but other school districts are not aware
of the strategies.
     "Having this template will help school districts to enhance
their current pest management programs. Through this system,
schools will be able to compare and evaluate their current
practices and improve their effectiveness," Kent said.
     Godfrey said the next step in reducing pesticide risks in
schools will involve a teleconference with Extension
entomologists on pest-proofing in the school environment.
     For more information about Integrated Pest Management,
contact the Department of Pesticide Regulation's Columbia office
at (803) 772-0766.
                             END