Ant management and water quality

Ants are a common a pest. Did you know that the household pesticides commonly used to control them are major contributors to water quality problems in California?

Pyrethroid insecticides are the chemicals typically used to control ants in and around residential structures. After the insecticides are applied they find their way into our waterways via urban runoff. Even at low concentrations, these chemicals can be toxic to aquatic organisms. With a few changes in our behavior, we can greatly reduce the amount of these pesticides in our water. For ways to reduce ants around your home visit UC’s urban pest management online or view this video.

More information about urban ant management and other UC IPM projects can be found in the 2009 Annual Report UC Statewide IPM Program Highlights.

 

Life Cycle of the Argentine Ant

 

Crack in pavement can be a nesting site for ants or other pests.

Large gap near ceiling pipe in school kitchen allowing ants and other pests to travel to connecting rooms.