In integrated pest management (IPM), what are the four steps commonly used for diagnosing turf pest problems?

• A. Identify symptoms and pests; monitor populations; determine economic thresholds; select an integrated management tactic with least risk
• B. Identify symptoms and pests; monitor populations; determine economic thresholds; apply a single chemical control
• C. Identify symptoms; monitor populations; determine economic thresholds; forecast weather and adjust mowing
• D. Identify symptoms and pests; monitor drought; apply fertilizer to control pests

Answer: (A)

IPM uses a structured, four-part approach to diagnose turf pest problems: identify symptoms and the pests causing them; monitor pest populations over time; determine economic thresholds—the pest density at which damage justifies intervention; and select an integrated management tactic with the least risk that combines multiple methods. This sequence ensures actions are targeted, timely, and environmentally responsible, rather than relying on a single solution. The other options skip one or more of these steps or substitute weather, mowing, drought, or fertilizer decisions for the diagnostic process, which doesn't align with how IPM guides turf pest management.