IPM Voice is a new organization, formed in 2010 and incorporated as an independent nonprofit in 2011.  Founders include more than 35 professionals who believe we need an ongoing advocate for the IPM to continue and expand the economic, environmental and health benefits IPM has provided for more than 40 years.

Everyone is welcome to join IPM Voice and participate in advocating for progressive IPM.  Memberships (join at www.ipmvoice.org/join.php ) are open to any individuals and organizations interested in helping IPM Voice achieve its mission.

IPM is a multi-disciplinary approach to solving pest challenges.  Professionals working in IPM participate in professional organizations and societies in agronomy, entomology, environmental science, facility management, plant pathology, public health, structural pest management, weed science, wildlife biology and more.  IPM Voice is a new venue, expanding options for all of these professionals to come together to network and  share information and resources, to continue the tremendous progress we have made in reducing pest and pesticide risks since 1972 when IPM first entered the public lexicon.

What is IPM Voice's mission?

IPM Voice advocates for integrated pest management (IPM) that is genuinely progressive and seeks continuous improvement of environmental, social and economic conditions through application of accepted scientific principles. We comprise diverse philosophies and approaches united to support a broad foundation upon which IPM will be strengthened and improved.

Are donations to IPM Voice tax deductible?

IPM Voice is incorporated as a nonprofit organization in Washington DC, and applying for tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3).  Once 501(c)(3) status is granted, contributions to IPM Voice will be tax deductible in accordance with section 170, i.e., the amount of the contribution over and above the value the donor receives from IPM Voice are tax deductible.  Contributions received before the IRS determination are likely to be deductible. Members will receive a disclosure indicating the portion of their membership dues that is tax deductible.

 What does IPM Voice hope to achieve?

IPM Voice is focused on advocating for IPM to those who can benefit from its practice, and increasing public and policy maker awareness of IPM and its benefits to agriculture and communities.  Our near-term goals are to recruit 500 individual and 75 organizational members, and establish an office and full-time staff in Washington DC in 2011.

What is IPM?

The National Road Map for IPM (www.ipmcenters.org/ipmroadmap.pdf) defines IPM as “a long-standing, science-based, decision-making process that identifies and reduces risks from pests and pest management related strategies. It coordinates the use of pest biology, environmental information, and available technology to prevent unacceptable levels of pest damage by the most economical means, while posing the least possible risk to people, property, resources, and the environment. IPM provides an effective strategy for managing pests in all arenas from developed agricultural, residential, and public areas to wild lands. IPM serves as an umbrella to provide an effective, all encompassing, low-risk approach to protect resources and people from pests.”

Will IPM Voice lobby?

In general, lobbying is defined as communications intended to influence specific legislation or a specific legislative proposal, or asking others to do so.  Promoting a cause or promoting action by the executive branch of government is not lobbying.  In addition, specific exceptions that are not considered lobbying include non-partisan study, analysis and research that take a view on specific legislation even if it advocates for that viewpoint, provided it presents a full and fair exposition.  Lobbying will be a very small portion of IPM Voices role and activities. 

 I am prohibited from lobbying.  Can I join or contribute to IPM Voice?

Even if you are prohibited from lobbying, you can still support and join IPM Voice.  Simply indicate your contribution is from your personal funds and is not to be used for lobbying, and we will ensure it is applied to activities other than lobbying.  IPM Voice advisory and other committee members who are prohibited from lobbying may recuse themselves from any discussion, decision-making or other activities related to lobbying.