Washington Pesticide Laws and Safety Practice Test

Which of the following is a mechanical control method?

1. Introducing natural predators to the pest

2. Altering the planting time to avoid peak pest populations

3. Using traps and fences to prevent or reduce infestation

4. Applying chemical pesticides

The correct answer is: Using traps and fences to prevent or reduce infestation

Mechanical control methods involve physically preventing or removing pests from a certain area. This includes options such as using traps and fences to prevent or reduce infestation. Introducing natural predators or altering planting times may be considered biological or cultural control methods, respectively. Chemical pesticides, while effective in killing pests, do not involve mechanical means and can be harmful to the environment. Therefore, option C is the most appropriate answer as it specifically pertains to a mechanical control method.