Senior IPM Manager
Costa Farms
Michelle Opela serves as the Senior Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Manager at Costa Farms’ Carolina locations, where she leads efforts to manage pests and diseases using primarily biological control methods. With a deep passion for sustainable agriculture, Michelle and her team employ innovative strategies combining beneficial insects, fungi, and bacteria to combat pests while minimizing chemical use.
Michelle’s work is rooted in the principles of IPM—combining chemical, biological, and cultural practices to create effective and environmentally responsible pest management solutions. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in pest control methods to prevent resistance and safeguard the farm’s ecosystem.
A lifelong insect enthusiast, Michelle’s fascination with bugs began in childhood and continues to inspire her professional work. She is an advocate for biological controls and enjoys educating others about their role in sustainable farming practices.
