Montgomery Parks Integrated Pest Management Program

Integrated Pest Management Program

To steward resources and manage pest issues on parkland, the department follows the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).  IPM is a science-based, environmentally sensitive approach that prioritizes long-term pest prevention and minimizes potential risks to people, property, and the environment. Our program combines multiple strategies and techniques such as mechanical removal of pests, cultural methods to improve soil and plant health, conserving and introducing beneficial biological controls, and when necessary, using pesticides.  

The Parks Department does not use pesticides for cosmetic purposes. Pesticides are used as a last resort to control noxious and invasive pests, maintain safe and playable athletic fields and courts, and prevent significant economic damage, including degradation of park infrastructure.  

Staff who apply pesticides and fertilizers are certified and registered with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Montgomery Parks is committed to providing high-quality, safe recreational facilities and protecting and conserving our valuable natural and cultural resources to meet the needs of current and future generations.

What is Montgomery County Code 33B?

County Code Chapter 33B went into effect on July 1, 2016.  The code presents guidelines for pesticide use in Montgomery County, including on county property and parkland. The goal of the code “is to inform the public about pesticide applications and minimize the use of pesticides for cosmetic purposes, while not restricting the ability to use pesticides in agriculture, for the protection of public health, or for other public benefits.”  

What is Montgomery Parks doing to comply with the law? 

Montgomery Parks continues to implement IPM strategies to ensure pesticides are used as a last resort. Most of the park system’s 37,000 acres are managed without the use of pesticides. While IPM is practiced countywide, the department manages 54 parks and all 275 playgrounds using alternative, environmentally friendly methods. 

These methods include hot foam applications, string trimming, mechanical weed removal, and products approved for use by Montgomery County Code 33B. These approved products must be listed by the National Organics Standards Board or designated as a “minimum risk” pesticide under FIFRA 25(b). More information on “minimum risk” pesticides visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  

This careful and balanced approach helps us ensure our parkland remains beautiful, resilient, safe, and open for public enjoyment.  

When pesticides are deemed necessary, the public is notified of applications through our website. The table below includes a schedule of upcoming pesticide applications.  This table is updated routinely to provide at least 48-hour notice of applications, except in cases of specific emergency applications like stinging insects harmful to human health.  When emergency applications are made, the amenity is closed to the public during the application.  

Montgomery Parks staff make every effort to notify the community on this webpage when a pesticide application is scheduled in a public area. Dates of applications may change or be canceled due to weather; also, occasional emergency applications (such as managing stinging insects harmful to human health) may be needed.  

On-site Signage Procedures:

• White prenotification signs are placed in advance of an application to playing fields, managed turf and treatments within 25 feet of a stream or creek. The signs list the planned application date, product, and the reason for the application.
• Yellow signs are installed at the site at the time of application and remain in place at least 48 hours following the pesticide application. For more information, call the phone number listed on the back of the sign.