Most insects are good

, Insects are a very important part of the earth’s ecology and provide food for amphibians, birds, many mammals, and fish.  Insects are also pollinators for many plants that are vital for humans and other creatures.  Without insects, much of the beautiful world we are used to could not exist.  Per the US Department of Agriculture website, “less than 1 percent of insect species are considered harmful.” However, in many areas, people have become accustomed to thinking all insects are either annoying pests or threats to crops or human health.  Pesticide use has become commonplace, and many pesticides indiscriminately harm insects other than the intended target species.  Pesticides sometimes also kill birds or other creatures that might eat the dead insects.  The earth needs insects, and most insects are useful even if we don’t see it.  Some insects can damage crops, cause serious disease, or cause unhealthful conditions inside a home (cockroaches and poisonous spiders do not belong in the house!) and so must be removed from specific locations.  Here are some ideas for controlling harmful insects while allowing the good insects to continue providing benefits. 

• Don’t spray an entire area with a potent pesticide that will kill a large variety of insects.  If you do need to spray with a pesticide, do some research to choose the least toxic spray, and if possible, one specific to the type of insect you are targeting.  Spray only the specific area with a problem insect, and only as often as necessary.
• Look for non-chemical ways to control insects that are in places you don’t want them.  For example, ladybugs eat aphids.  Integrated Pest Management information can help you find biological, mechanical, or other targeted ways to control a particular undesirable insect.  Here is a website to get you started.  https://www.usda.gov/peoples-garden/gardening-advice/ipm
• Per the US Department of Agriculture, “an extremely efficient and cost-effective way to control pests is to provide habitat for beneficial insects, bats and birds.”  
• Keep food in sealed containers.  Standing water is a perfect place for mosquitos to breed so check your yard and remove items that might collect and retain water.