Mission Statement

To protect agriculture and the community by managing infestations and the spread of detrimental pests through partnerships, education, and the promotion of integrated pest management strategies.
 
 
The purpose of the Pest Management program is to protect the environment, agriculture and the public from rodents, weeds, insect pests and diseases. An integrated pest management approach is followed to reduce risk and the dependence on traditional pesticides. Community outreach and coordination is conducted to educate those who control pest problems. 
 
Vertebrate Pest Control
The San Luis Obispo County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office has played an active role in helping agriculturalists and homeowners control vertebrate pests that cause damage to agricultural crops as well as private property. The program is designed to provide education and assistance to both agriculturalists and homeowners, protect endangered species by promoting proper and safe pesticide use, and to protect the public health from diseases transmitted by rodents and other vertebrate pests.
 
 
Weed Control
· Protects agriculture from noxious weed invasion
· Controls noxious weeds along county and state roads
· Enhances driver safety by improving visibility through weed control 
 
Alternative Pest Control
· Reduces use of pesticides
· Distributes biological agents to control pests
· Coordinates research and educational resources
· Provides alternative approaches to pest control problems 
 
Honey Bees
· Educate the public about Honey Bees
· Assist other agencies in protecting the public  
 
Wildlife Services 
Predators and other wildlife pose a significant threat to agriculture, property, natural resources, and human health and safety. The San Luis Obispo County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office provides partial funding and office resources for two USDA Wildlife Specialists. These individual provide professional service to the community in the form of information, advice, equipment, materials, as well as direct assistance in handling wildlife issues. 

Managing Wildlife Damage