Agriculture Information

Integrated Pest Management

IPM is a pest control strategy that enphasizes the long-term control of pests and their damage through a combination of practices such as biological control, habitat management, cultural practices and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed and the goal is to remove only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected that pose not risk to human health, beneficial and nontarget organisms and benefit the environment.

The following two web sites provide useful information on IPM.

University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program
This sight is oriented towards the commercial producer

Washington State University Cooperative Extension Hortsense
This sight is oriented towards the home gardener.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

The Stevens County office is committed to developing a community-based food system that gives local citizens an option to buy local products and gives local farmers an opportunity to make a reasonable profit. The range of products we have in mind goes from fruits, vegetables, and herbs through poultry and livestock products. We are currently working on two projects that help to create this system: a community kitchen and a mobile poultry processing unit. We encourage sustainable production systems that enhances biological activity in the soil. We offer an extensive courses in developing or improving an agricultural enterprise including production, marketing and financial management.