The Woodlands Township wants residents to rethink how they handle backyard pests before reaching for a spray bottle.

The Township's Environmental Services Department is promoting integrated pest management, or IPM, an approach that focuses on preventing pests rather than killing them with chemical pesticides. The push comes ahead of the 29th annual Woodlands Landscaping Solutions event, a free workshop set for Sept. 26 from 9 a.m. to noon at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.

The department laid out the case on its "Protect the Beauty, Prevent the Pest" web page, published Wednesday, Sept. 2. IPM encourages homeowners to identify and eliminate conditions that attract pests instead of relying on chemicals the department says can harm the local environment.

Not every bug is the enemy. Bees and butterflies pollinate flowers, and ladybugs feed on aphids that damage plants, the department noted. The Township recommends residents download the iNaturalist app to identify beneficial insects before reaching for pest-control products.

Five habits the Township recommends

The Environmental Services Department listed five steps residents can take now:

  • Eliminate standing water from buckets, flowerpot saucers and other containers.
  • Keep garbage containers tightly sealed.
  • Clean up pet waste and dispose of it properly.
  • Remove piles of leaves, wood and clutter where pests hide.
  • Keep trees trimmed back and away from the house.

What to expect Sept. 26

The Landscaping Solutions event brings together experts who share tips on sustainable, water-wise gardening. The Township described it as a one-day event where residents can learn techniques to make their landscapes more earth-friendly.

The Township's official account on X posted an Aug. 31 call for vendors, noting the event is community-based and open to anyone with knowledge of sustainable landscape practices.

Residents can reach Environmental Education Coordinator Grace DeCarlo and the Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800 or [email protected] for more information.

Upcoming community events

  • Woodlands Landscaping Solutions: Sept. 26, 9 a.m. to noon, The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. Free.