Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park Integrated Pest Management Plan for Boxelder Bugs

Alberts, Susan

The National Park Service has adopted the methods of integrated pest management (IPM) for control of any exotic or native species which are determined to be “pests.” IPM utilizes mechanical and biological controls and prevention as primary tools and minimizes the use of pesticides. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is a complex of several individual park units extending over approximately 8,000 acres in Virginia from urban Fredericksburg to rural Spotsylvania County. The park includes forests, fields, and farming units and contains numerous buildings, including 2 visitor centers, office buildings, and historic structures. The National Park Service has adopted the methods of integrated pest management (IPM) for control of any exotic or native species which are determined to be "pests." IPM utilizes mechanical and biological controls and prevention as primary tools and minimizes the use of pesticides. Boxelder bugs have been a major nuisance pest in Chatham Manor and other private homes in the Fredericksburg area for many years. Chatham Manor, which resides in the Fredericksburg Battlefield proximal to the historic downtown, is a popular attraction for tourists. Chatham also serves as the headquarters for the park, with offices for the Superintendent and staff. Boxelder bugs are not a threat to either park resources or public safety. They can, however, leave stains on rugs, curtains, or furniture if they are not removed or crushed.