Pests are living organisms that occur where they are not wanted or that cause damage to crops or humans or other animals. To aid in preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating pests pesticides are often used. When properly managed and administered pesticides are useful to society. However, since they are designed to kill or adversely affect living organisms, most pesticides create some risk of harm to humans or the environment.
Navy policy is to employ an integrated pest management program (IPMP) that minimizes pesticide use through the development and implementation of pest management techniques. An IPMP incorporates continuous monitoring, education, record-keeping, and communication to prevent pests and disease vectors from causing unacceptable damage to operations, people, property, materiel, or the environment.
On DoD installations only pesticides approved by the pest management consultant and applied by trained and certified personnel may be used. For U.S. Forces Japan, pesticides are further regulated under the Japan Environmental Governing Standard, Chapter 11. For more information regarding pest management refer to OPNAVINST 6250.4C or contact the Integrated Pest Management Coordinator.