True or False: The goal of integrated pest management (IPM) is to completely eliminate pest impacts.

The goal of integrated pest management (IPM) is not to completely eliminate pest impacts but rather to manage pest populations at levels that do not cause significant harm or disruption to the environment, agriculture, or human health. This approach emphasizes a combination of strategies—including biological control, habitat management, and the use of pesticides in a targeted manner—to minimize potential risks while accommodating economic and environmental considerations.

Using IPM allows for more sustainable practices, as it focuses on understanding pest behavior and ecology rather than simply trying to eradicate every individual pest. This is particularly important because complete elimination of pests can lead to disruptions in the ecosystem and may also foster resistance among pest populations.

The other options suggest either a complete removal of pests, variability in approaches based on situations, or limitations to agricultural settings. However, IPM is a comprehensive strategy applicable across various environments, including urban and natural areas, and emphasizes management rather than eradication.