Successful IPM and NLC programs follow a systems-based approach that incorporate a set of steps into a decision-making framework. The MGG Lawn & Land Forum identified seven essential components to this framework. They are:
- Establishing tolerance thresholds and prioritizing fields
- Building a defense system against weeds and pests by increasing cultural practices.
- Selecting the least amount of the least harmful weed or pest control product.
- Ensuring continual improvement in the program by having protocols for weed and pest monitoring, pesticide selection, recordkeeping and evaluation.
- Setting guidelines for pesticide application, storage, disposal and notification to prevent accidents and exposure to non-target subjects.
- Developing strategies to partner with staff, leadership and the community to limit costs associated with transitioning to IPM/NLC.
- Coordinating outreach and education for the community to facilitate the IPM/NLC transition.