Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

Using barriers to prevent pests from entering an area is an example of which pest management method?

1. Cultural

2. Mechanical

3. Biological

4. Pesticidal

The correct answer is: Mechanical

Using barriers to prevent pests from entering an area is a clear example of mechanical pest management. This method involves physical controls to manage pest populations and limit their access to certain areas or resources. Barriers can include physical structures such as nets, fences, or traps, which directly inhibit pests from reaching plants, crops, or protected spaces. Mechanical methods are often favored because they can be environmentally friendly and do not rely on chemicals. They work by creating obstacles that pests cannot cross, effectively reducing their ability to cause damage. While other pest management methods, such as cultural, biological, or pesticidal approaches, may also play a role in an integrated pest management plan, using barriers specifically highlights the physical, hands-on strategies employed to control pests.