03/21/2025

Washington State Commission on Integrated Pest Management: Why It Matters to WSPMA Members

The Washington State Commission on Integrated Pest Management (WCIPM) plays a crucial role in addressing pest management challenges across Washington. Originally established in 1995 as the Washington State Commission on Pesticide Registration (WSCPR) to assist in obtaining and maintaining pesticide registrations for minor uses, the commission expanded its mission in 1999 to support all forms of pest management—biological, cultural, and chemical. In 2023, it was renamed to better reflect its focus on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies across multiple industries, including agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, structural pest control, right-of-way maintenance, noxious weed control, nursery and greenhouse management, landscaping, ornamental plants, and mosquito control.

Meeting Recap: Research, Regulation, and Export Challenges

At our recent WCIPM meeting at WSU Puyallup, we reviewed ongoing research projects and discussed key regulatory and industry issues that impact Washington growers, applicators, and pest control professionals.

Checking in on Funded Research Projects

One of the commission’s primary functions is to fund research and demonstration projects that address unmet pest management needs in Washington. The commission works closely with researchers and industry experts to support innovative solutions for pest and disease management, particularly for specialty and minor crops.

Washington Seed Crops & 24(c) Registrations

A major focus of this meeting was learning more about Washington’s seed crop industry and the role of 24(c) pesticide registrations—special local needs (SLN) labels that provide state-level approvals for essential pest control products not otherwise available under federal registrations. These 24(c) registrations allow Washington farmers to access critical tools for pest management while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Without them, certain crops would be left without viable pest control options, significantly impacting production and economic stability.

Navigating Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) for Exported Crops

We also discussed Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs), which set legal limits on pesticide residues for agricultural commodities in international markets. These standards vary by country, creating complex compliance challenges for Washington growers—especially those producing high-value export crops like hops, cherries, and vegetables. Growers must balance effective pest control with meeting strict residue limits to ensure continued market access abroad. The commission works to support research and outreach efforts to help Washington producers navigate these regulatory barriers.

Why This Matters to WSPMA Members

Many of these issues have a direct impact on the agricultural industry, yet they often go unnoticed outside of specialized sectors. WSPMA is proud to have a representative on the commission, ensuring that pesticide applicators have a voice in these critical discussions. Our representative, the Commissioner representing Pesticide Applicators, helps advocate for the needs of professional applicators and ensures that pest management strategies consider practical, real-world applications.

Encouraging More Structural & Urban Pest Research

While much of the commission’s work has traditionally focused on agriculture, it has also supported research in structural and urban pest management. In the past, WCIPM funded a study on bed bug management, which provided valuable insights for pest control professionals.

We strongly encourage researchers to submit proposals focused on structural and urban pest management, as these areas still have significant research gaps. The commission can provide funding for projects that explore improved pest control methods for homes, businesses, and public spaces, helping to advance best practices in our industry.

Looking Ahead

The Washington State Commission on Integrated Pest Management continues to be a key player in advancing pest control research, regulatory understanding, and industry collaboration. WSPMA’s involvement ensures that the needs of professional applicators remain a priority, and we hope to see more research proposals focused on structural and urban pest challenges in the future.

If you have ideas for research topics or want to learn more about the commission’s work, please reach out—we’re always looking for ways to support and improve pest management in Washington State!