About

The concept of classical biological control is very simple. Exotic (non-native) weeds are responsible for the vast majority of the range weed problems in North America. When foreign weeds are introduced, they come without the successful co-evolved enemies that are present in their native ranges. Without these natural checks present, the weeds are able to out-compete native vegetation. Introducing biological control agents can restore the natural checks and balances that control exotic weeds in their native habitats.

This catalog features the widest selection of insects currently available. We are continuously working to include new products as they become available. If you want to know more about a weed or insect, including ones not featured in this catalog, please give us a call.

Our Purpose

Bob and Cyndi Crayton formed Integrated Weed Control (IWC) to provide quality products and consulting services for weed management. Our approach incorporates integrated pest management principles to provide products and services that achieve maximum control benefits economically. We will discuss and point you toward resources for land reclamation and restoration services to help improve forest, range, wildland, riparian, and fire-damaged habitats. We have provided numerous workshops and customized on-site training on weed surveying, assessment and monitoring; GPS mapping and training; GIS design, maintenance and instruction; and comprehensive weed management planning. These popular educational sessions were conducted for many Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as private sector clients. We are more than willing to pass our experience on to you in the form of tips, advice, and remote consulting. See our results page here.

Why Use Insects to Control Noxious Weeds?

• Exotic (non-native) weeds can be invasive. Introduced foreign weeds came without the successful co-evolved enemies present in their native ranges. Without these natural checks, the weeds are able to out-compete native vegetation. Introducing biological control agents can help to restore the natural checks and balances that control exotic weeds in their native habitats.
• Biological controls are not a “quick fix”, but they are a permanent option for long-term management of invasive weeds.
• Biocontrols do not eliminate the invasive species, but instead work to control the abundance and to minimize the monoculture characteristic of infestations.
• The target weed will not be eradicated; instead the objective is to reduce the population to the point that it becomes just another “well-behaved member” of the existing plant community.
• Biocontrol impacts the density and vigor of weeds, allowing native species to re-establish and more effectively compete.
• The beauty of biocontrol is that it is self-perpetuating. Once the insects are released, they continue to reproduce and spread on their own. Collect them yourself after establishment.
• Biocontrol insect populations will increase and spread to new areas on their own over time.
• Biological control is most effective when used for large infestations of invasive species; however, it can also be a viable option for smaller sites.
• Biocontrols are thoroughly researched before being certified and permitted, assuring that they will not attack crops or non-target species.
• With proper planning and management, biocontrol releases can be an important component of integrated weed control, working effectively with cultural, mechanical, and chemical controls.
• Biological weed control has been widely proven to be a cost-effective and viable weed control method, even for controlling widely dispersed and inaccessible invasive plant populations.
• IWC’s approach to weed control incorporates integrated pest management principles to provide biological control agents and related services for achieving maximum benefits economically.

Our Guarantee

1. We unconditionally guarantee that your insects will arrive in good health and will be ready to thrive in their new location (UPS delays and damages are beyond our control, however; mortality due to these circumstances is not covered.)
2. We are the only company to offer long-term assistance: Advice and tips regarding the release, establishment, monitoring, and future redistribution of our insects is included with the purchase of the insects–a service available at any time with no additional charge.
3. We will work on your terms. Within the constraints and availabilities of each insect, we will collect and ship to fit your needs. Your successful biocontrol program is important to us.
4. We are here to help you get the most out of your investment. Information and advice are always free. Let’s talk.

The successful establishment of introduced insects depends upon biological and environmental conditions beyond our control. We will provide you with information to help ensure the best possible outcome. However, we make no warranty about eventual establishment or degree of control obtained.

We will answer any questions you may have, discuss your specific sites and problem weeds, and work with you to arrive at the best integrated control strategies. This includes assisting you with monitoring your existing populations of weed-feeding insects—there is no need to purchase something that you already have. Interested in establishing, collecting, and moving your own insect populations? We can advise you. Let’s talk about getting there.

This catalog features the widest selection of insects currently available. We are continuously working to include new products as they become available. If you want to know more about a weed or insect, including ones not featured in this catalog, please give us a call.

Important Information about Orders

• We fill our orders on a first- ordered first-served basis and typically have overwhelming demand (especially for those insects with limited availability), so it is advisable to order as soon as possible.
• We do not require prepayment. We enclose an invoice in each box as we ship. You can mail a check back after you have released your insects to begin working at your site.
• All insects are available only during specific time periods, depending on the life cycle of each species.
• When you order, you will be given an estimated timeframe for the delivery of each insect. We will work within your time constraints as much as possible, but be prepared to receive the insects when we call—insects cannot be shipped outside their window of availability.
• ALL ORDERS MUST BE SHIPPED BY OVERNIGHT DELIVERY. We do not ship without confirmation—all shipments are coordinated with you (or the recipient) prior to shipping so that you know they are coming.
• Shipping charges are in addition to the price of the insects. BE AWARE THAT OVERNIGHT RATES ARE QUITE HIGH. At your request, we will provide shipping quotes for your location.
• We will work closely with you to make the release process as efficient as possible. We will provide any consulting advice that you may require regarding the release, establishment, monitoring, and redistribution of these biocontrols as a service included with the purchase of the insects.
• All insects are packaged in breathable, escape-proof containers in well-insulated packaging. Packages are kept cool with frozen cold packs. We do not charge for our packaging.