Which of the following is a benefit of implementing IPM?

Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers numerous advantages, one of the key benefits being the reduction of pesticide hazards to people and pets. IPM emphasizes the careful use of pesticides as part of a broader pest management strategy that includes biological control, habitat manipulation, and cultural practices. By relying more on these sustainable methods, IPM practitioners can minimize the need for chemical treatments, thus lowering exposure risks for humans and animals during pest management activities.

Additionally, while other options might suggest a focus on aspects of pest management, they do not align with the core principles and intended outcomes of IPM. For instance, increased pesticide use contradicts the IPM philosophy of reducing chemical inputs, and higher costs for farmers would be an unfavorable consequence rather than a benefit. Furthermore, while IPM aims to manage pest populations effectively, it does not guarantee complete pest elimination, as the goal is to maintain pest numbers at manageable levels rather than eradicate them entirely.