What is the first step in the pest management process?

Identifying the pest and assessing the level of infestation is the first step in the pest management process because it lays the foundation for all subsequent actions. Accurate identification of the pest is crucial because different pests require different management strategies; knowing the specific pest helps tailor an effective approach. Additionally, assessing the level of infestation is important to determine the severity of the problem and the appropriate response needed. This initial assessment helps in deciding whether control measures are necessary and what types should be implemented, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and effectively.

Other steps, such as implementing control measures and documenting pesticide use, come after this critical first step; without proper identification and assessment, these subsequent actions may not address the actual pest problem effectively. Conducting a survey of the property also plays a role, but it typically serves to inform the assessment rather than constituting the initial step of the pest management process itself.