The Urban IPM Program at Montana State University

The Montana State University Urban IPM Program is focused on educating professionals in the fields of arboriculture, landscape, nursery and lawn care. The Urban IPM Program was designed to supplement practices that are already in place, giving professionals the tools they need for serving an ever-changing consumer population.

Along with workshops and online courses, up-to-date resources are provided to help individuals to research topics from research-based sites. Webinars, video resources and announcements for Urban IPM workshops will also be available. Digital learning opportunities will be available using the DigitalChalk platform. By providing online courses, professionals will have the flexibility to continue their education as their schedules permit and become MSU Urban IPM Certified Professionals. 

The MSU Urban IPM Certification Program

Landscape, nursery and other "Green industry" professionals and their clients are seeking solutions that minimize their impact on the environment. Integrated Pest Management is not about the eradication of pesticides. Instead, it is a systematic approach of looking at a landscape and making sure alternatives to pesticide applications are considered before pesticides are utilized. The adoption of IPM practices will decrease pest outbreaks and reduce pesticide exposure where we live, work and play. Homeowners/consumers will be educated about the benefits of IPM and will demand IPM practices in the home landscape by certified IPM professionals.

Who can be a part of the Urban IPM Certification Program?

The MSU Urban IPM Certification Program was designed for landscape professionals, which includes nursery staff, landscapers, personal gardeners, lawn care professionals, arborists, extension agents, and pest professionals. In addition, others with an interest in furthering their education on IPM practices are welcome.

What is the professional advantage of this program?

The benefits of becoming a MSU Urban IPM Certified Professional are substantial:

• Certified professionals can be confident that the steps that have been implemented are scientifically based and meet the highest standards.
• Certification proves that one is serious about ones profession.
• Obtaining certification can open doors to consumers who are focused on sustainable practices.
• Urban IPM certification will allow the professional a marketing advantage.

Certified individuals will be listed on the MSU Urban IPM website. This will assist homeowners in finding individuals and businesses that have been trained in IPM principles.

What are the requirements for the program?

A participant in the certification program will need to receive 12 continuing education credits (CEU’s) over a three-year period to maintain certification. Urban IPM CEU’s can be gained through many avenues. Credits for new participants and former MSU Urban IPM Certified Professionals will be available for participation in workshops, conferences, digital offerings available through the MSU Urban IPM webpage, signing up for MSU Urban Alerts and participating in online surveys and quizzes. Workshop opportunities will coincide with state-wide conferences when possible.