USDA: Texas screwworm cases up to 4

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed two additional cases of New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax, also known as NWS) in the United States: a calf in La Salle County, Texas, and a dog in Andrews County, Texas. At press time, the dog is believed to have recently been in Mexico. In the U.S., this species had been considered to be eradicated since 1966, although there was a small, contained outbreak in Florida in 2017.

“Over the past week, USDA has identified and expeditiously confronted four confirmed detections of New World screwworm. While we address these instances that require immediate attention, and continue to sample suspected cases, we are simultaneously working to eradicate the pest entirely,” Dudley Hoskins, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, said in a news release. “We need the partnership of animal owners across the region – please stay vigilant, check your animals closely, and report anything that looks suspicious. Together, we can protect our livestock, our communities, and the health of animals nationwide.”

These two cases join the one announced for a calf on June 3 and a fourth case for which, at press time, additional details have not been made available.

Information on this flesh-eating fly

Per the USDA news release:

NWS is a serious pest that threatens livestock, pets, wildlife, and, in rare cases, people. The larvae burrow into the living tissue of animals, causing severe wounds, animal suffering, and significant economic losses.

The USDA and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) continue to lead an aggressive unified response, with a total of 75 people actively responding on the ground and hundreds of additional people around the country providing laboratory diagnostics, logistics, treatment distribution, air operations, outreach, operational planning, and resource support for the response. APHIS and TAHC will continue to surge additional trained personnel as needed to ensure an effective response.

For each new case, USDA and TAHC implement actions outlined in the NWS Response Playbook, including:

• Establishing and maintaining a 20-kilometer infested zone with quarantines, movement controls, and heightened surveillance around confirmed detections
• Increasing trapping along the border and outside the dispersal zone
• Conducting surveillance and management strategies in wildlife
• Implementing targeted outreach to local producers, veterinarians, and communities

In addition, the USDA continues to release sterile flies over and just outside of the infested areas. To ensure sterile fly release operations can be deployed to affected areas in Texas and in northern Mexico near the border as quickly and efficiently as possible, USDA has activated the sterile fly dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas. Sterile pupae arrived at the facility on Friday, June 5, and aerial dispersal flights originating from the base will begin tomorrow, June 9.

Because it is important to continue ongoing surveillance efforts while releasing sterile insects, it is possible that sterile NWS flies could be caught and/or reported. To ensure officials can tell the difference between sterile and wild NWS flies, USDA dyes the sterile pupae, and the dye transfers to the sterile flies when they hatch. The fluorescent green or orange dye glows under ultraviolet (UV) light and may also be visible to the naked eye. If a sterile fly is captured in a trap, this dye allows animal health officials to quickly rule the fly out as a threat. 

What local PMPs can do

Pest management professionals (PMPs) in the area can tell their customers to check animals for:

• Draining or enlarging wounds
• Maggots or egg masses
• Signs of discomfort
• Lesions in body openings (nose, ears, genitalia, umbilical area)

Per the USDA, anyone who suspects a screwworm infestation should immediately contact their veterinarian, state animal health official, or USDA. USDA has established a contact page at APHIS.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/stop-screwworm/report-suspected-cases-screwworm to ensure everyone can easily find the correct contact information for these groups. Learn more at Screwworm.gov.

<p>The post USDA: Texas screwworm cases up to 4 first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/usda-texas-screwworm-cases-up-to-4/
Sacramento CA

Kness Pest Defense: Custom-Built Protector

In professional pest management, durability isn’t optional. It’s essential. 

The Kness Protector was built to deliver rugged, reliable protection where it matters most. Originally engineered to safeguard Pro-Ketch traps from forklifts and heavy machinery, it’s now available as a custom-built solution designed specifically for your trap and environment. 

When your equipment is protected, it lasts longer. When your setup is secure, service runs smoother. When performance holds up, confidence follows. 

That’s the advantage of protection built for the real world. 

• Built tough with durable steel construction
• Custom-made to fit your traps and space
• Low-profile design for tight, high-traffic areas
• Proven performance trusted by professionals 

Protect what powers your performance. Contact Kness today to build your custom protector.

About Kness Pest Defense

Per company history, the Ketch-All was invented by a young, widowed father of six, Austin Enos “Brick” Kness, in 1924. Mice were prevalent at the high school in which Kness was a custodian, “and led him to the idea of the ‘box’ trap. He built the first trap from a square oilcan, a Tuxedo Tobacco can, a spring from a curtain rod, and the wood base of a crate. The first night he set his trap, he captured five mice.

“He was elated and showed the teachers and his friends. He was encouraged to build others for his friends and to seek a patent. By 1927, Kness Mfg. Co. was formed to produce the KetchAll Automatic Mousetrap and another of Kness’ inventions, the RotoBow tree saw.”

Brick Kness was inducted into the Pest Management Professional Hall of Fame in 2024.

Kness.com

<p>The post Kness Pest Defense: Custom-Built Protector first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/kness-pest-defense-custom-built-protector/
Sacramento CA

MGK: Sumari Triton

New Sumari Triton Ant Gel Bait’s exclusive bait matrix takes the guesswork out of ant baiting by combining three food sources — sugar, oil and protein — to meet ants’ nutritional needs in a single bait.

This new product joins the existing Sumari System lineup, which includes an effective non-repellent insecticide spray and a popular ant gel bait. This launch follows several recent improvements to the Sumari family, specifically the insecticide:

• The Environmental Protection Agency’s acceptance of clothianidin, Sumari’s active ingredient, for use in food-handling establishments and commercial kitchens
• Expanded labeled pests with the addition of wasps, hornets and yellowjackets
• Updated ant control language emphasizing colony elimination and prevention of re-infestations

“Sumari Triton is another chapter in MGK’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the pest control industry,” says MGK President Steve Gullickson, adding that feedback from pest management professionals (PMPs) “drove the development of the Sumari System, and it quickly became a game-changer in ant control treatments. We’re excited to bring this next-generation bait with Nutrilure technology to provide even more value to PMPs — helping reduce callbacks and increase profitability.”

Sumari Triton is powered by Nutrilure, a trademarked bait matrix developed by MGK’s research and development scientists. Nutrilure allows for the inclusion of three different nutritional sources in one bait while maintaining palatability and optimal uptake across most ant species.

MGK’s commitment to sustainable packaging and the protection of those using its products is reflected in Sumari Triton and the entire Sumari System:

• All plastic packaging, caps, syringes and tips are 100 percent recyclable
• All paper labels and inserts are sourced from sustainably managed forests
• Sumari Triton is formulated without crustacean shellfish, eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, sesame, soy or wheat to minimize allergenic impact during use
• Both Sumari gel baits include bittering agents to help protect against accidental consumption by pets and children

About MGK

MGK’s mission is to make life healthier by creating responsible products that protect people and their environments from the impact of insects. Founded in 1902 and based in Minnesota, MGK sells insect control products throughout the world, spanning several industries including professional pest control, consumer home and pet products, animal health, and crop protection. As an affiliate of Sumitomo Chemical Company, MGK is a worldwide leader in the development and distribution of the botanical insecticide pyrethrum as well as a wide range of conventional insect control technologies. MGK and its subsidiaries employ 250 people at its facilities in North America and Africa.

MGK.com/Sumari

<p>The post MGK: Sumari Triton first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/mgk-sumari-triton/
Sacramento CA

Tyro Group completes second US acquisition

Elverum, Norway-based Tyro Group has acquired American City Pest & Termite, a California-based pest control provider.

This marks the Group’s second acquisition in the United States, following the acquisition of EnviroSMART Multifamily Pest Solutions in Texas in November 2025.

The acquisition represents a further step in Tyro Group’s international growth strategy, as it continues to build a network of high-quality, customer-focused pest control businesses across key markets.

Founded in 1979 by Jim and Celia Shockey, American City Pest & Termite began as a family operation where customer calls, billing and fieldwork all happened from the home. What started at the Shockey family kitchen table has grown over four decades into a community-rooted service provider across Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Through its history, American City has remained guided by the same principles: work hard, treat people kindly, do the right thing and take pride in serving the families and businesses that rely on you.

With the acquisition, American City Pest & Termite enters a new chapter. After many years of leading the company, President Cindy Ziemke will be retiring from day-to-day operations and transitioning into a consultant role with Tyro Group.

American City’s leadership remains strong and steady. Greg Bausch and Andrea (Andi) Moreno will continue in their roles guiding the team, supporting operations and carrying forward the culture and values that have defined American City for 47 years.

About Tyro Group

Tyro Group is a leading pest control company in Europe, operating in seven countries with particularly strong market positions in the UK, Norway and Germany. We bring together the best local entrepreneurs and teams delivering the highest levels of service quality in the market. By combining operational expertise, long-term investment and shared best practices, Tyro Group is raising standards and driving innovation across the pest management industry.

<p>The post Tyro Group completes second US acquisition first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/tyro-group-completes-second-us-acquisition/
Sacramento CA

Pi Chi Omega awards 6 entomology scholarships

Pi Chi Omega, the international fraternity for pest management professionals, continued its longstanding commitment to supporting the next generation of entomologists and pest management leaders through its annual scholarship program. Since establishing the program in 1976, Pi Chi Omega has awarded 189 scholarships totaling more than $301,000 to students studying entomology and related fields.

The organization’s first scholarship recipient was Bobby Corrigan, Ph.D., now one of the most respected and recognizable figures in the pest management industry on rodent control. Like many scholarship recipients over the years, Corrigan credits Pi Chi Omega’s support as an important part of his professional journey. Through the scholarship program, Pi Chi Omega not only encourages research and academic achievement that benefits the structural pest management industry but also helps cultivate a strong pipeline of talented entomologists who often go on to build careers within the industry after graduation.

Stephanie Hill, Ph.D., Chair of the Scholarship Committee and a 2010 scholarship recipient herself, shared in a news release, “This year’s applicant pool showcased an outstanding level of passion, academic achievement and commitment to advancing the pest management industry. The committee was truly encouraged by the caliber of students pursuing careers in our field.”

Hill also recognized the efforts of the scholarship committee, stating, “We are grateful to the committee members for their thoughtful evaluation process and dedication throughout the selection process. Choosing just six recipients from such a strong and deserving group of applicants was no easy task.”

Pi Chi Omega President James Miller, ACE, emphasized the organization’s continued investment in future industry leaders. “Supporting the next generation of pest management professionals and entomology researchers is central to Pi Chi Omega’s mission,” added Miller. “These students demonstrate exceptional promise and we are proud to invest in their future success.”

Miller continued, “Our scholarship program reflects Pi Chi Omega’s ongoing commitment to advancing the industry through education, leadership and research. Scholarship recipients are selected for their academic achievement, passion for the field and potential to make meaningful contributions to the profession.”

Below are the following recipients of the 2026 scholarship awards:

• John Osmun Scholarship awarded to graduate student Bandana Shrestha, University of Kentucky – $3,500
• Founders Endowment Scholarship awarded to graduate student Jun-Yin Lum, University of California, Riverside – $2,500
• Alain VanRyckeghem Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Ashmita Sapkota, Auburn University – $2,500
• Austin Frishman Scholarship awarded to graduate student Fan-Ling Liu, Texas A&M University – $2,500
• Norm Ehmann Scholarship awarded to graduate student Austin McKay, Louisiana State University – $2,500
• R. Randall Rollins Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Babatunji Daramola, Rutgers University – $2,500

Students interested in applying for a Pi Chi Omega scholarship can learn more here. Applications are accepted each winter beginning in mid-January and are due by mid-March.

About Pi Chi Omega

Pi Chi Omega is a national fraternity for pest management professionals. Initiated in 1950 by six students of PMP Hall of Famer Dr. John Osmun at Purdue University, including fellow Hall of Famer Bill Brehm, the fraternity today is comprised of nearly 450 members representing 38 states and 4 foreign countries. 

<p>The post Pi Chi Omega awards 6 entomology scholarships first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/pi-chi-omega-awards-6-entomology-scholarships/
Sacramento CA

UPFDA Spring Conference highlights tarrifs, inflation and more

From April 21-22, PMP VP of Content and Group Manager Marty Whitford and Associate Brand Manager Mike Joyce attended the United Producers Formulators & Distributers Association (UPFDA) Spring Conference.

Talking business

This year’s conference featured many topics, including tariff and inflation impact and strategies, making AI-informed decisions and a panel led by Marty Whitford with panelists Andy Linares, president of Bug Off Pest Control Center and  Brent Bunch, business manager of BWI Companies.

VIDEO: PMP STAFF

During the panel, leading distributors share insights on consolidation, tariffs, labor, training, fuel costs and inflation — along with practical strategies to protect margins and drive growth. Expect real-world lessons, actionable ideas and a few personal stories from those helping power the industry every day.

Giving back

The event concluded with a volunteer opportunity for all attendees, hosted by P.E.S.T. Relief International which involved cleaning and installing encasements on the mattresses of One80 Place a Charleston, S.C. non-profit that serves hundreds of men facing homelessness, and several hundred families needing assistance with utilities, food and other urgent household needs.

IMAGE: PMP STAFF

Look out for our full coverage in an upcoming edition of PMP magazine.

About UPFDA

In 1968, UPFDA was formed to represent the suppliers to the pest management industry. Suppliers felt that the best way to provide service to the industry was to establish an association to voice their common concerns and position on packaging, shipping, sponsorships, conferences, legislation and regulatory affairs. For 54 years, UPFDA has been giving this important sector of the pest management industry a voice.

<p>The post UPFDA Spring Conference highlights tarrifs, inflation and more first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/upfda-spring-conference-highlights-tarrifs-inflation-and-more/
Sacramento CA

Thermacell: LIV 2.0

Thermacell Repellents Inc., a Bedford, Mass.-based manufacturer of highly effective zone mosquito repellents, announced the launch of LIV 2.0, the next generation of its on-demand outdoor mosquito protection system for backyards, restaurants, resorts and senior living. Backed by newly expanded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered claims, LIV 2.0 delivers a large protection zone against mosquitoes and no-see-ums — covering up to 3,140 square feet from a single hub with 10 repellers, without sprays, smoke, scent or mess. That is generally enough to protect a regular pool area, outdoor kitchen, dining space and lounge area combined.

LIV has expanded efficacy claims beyond mosquitoes to include no-see-ums, also known as biting midges (Culicoides spp.), addressing persistent, outdoor pests that can significantly disrupt comfort and enjoyment across residential and commercial outdoor spaces. The new LIV 2.0 was field-tested and evaluated at the Thermacell Science & Research Center in Hampton, Fla., and builds on the proven LIV product line trusted across more than 8,000 residential and commercial installations.

As the U.S. enters peak mosquito season, warmer temperatures and longer insect activity periods are increasing mosquito pressure across many regions of the country. According to surveillance data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquito-borne diseases including West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika continue to expand geographically, increasing demand for reliable outdoor protection solutions for homes and businesses. LIV 2.0 utilizes Thermacell’s scientifically proven spatial repellent technology to repel mosquitoes that may transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika Virus, consistent with EPA-registered claims.

“Outdoor spaces deserve the same level of comfort as the indoors, without mosquitoes,” Adam Goess, executive director, Global Insights & Innovation at Thermacell, said in a news release. “LIV 2.0 delivers scalable, on-demand protection that integrates seamlessly into how people live, entertain and gather outdoors, without the hassle of spraying your entire yard and reapplying again and again throughout the season.

LIV 2.0 Key Features & Benefits

• Large, Scalable Coverage: Protects up to 3,140 square feet with a single hub and up to 10 repellers, with the ability to add multiple hubs for expanded coverage across larger properties and commercial venues.
• Expanded Protection Beyond Mosquitoes: Repels mosquitoes, including Aedes albopictus, and repels no-see-ums (Culicoides spp.).
• Scientifically Proven Performance: EPA-registered and rigorously field-tested in real-world mosquito environments.
• People, Pet and Outdoor Friendly Design: A scent-free, smoke-free solution that integrates discreetly into outdoor spaces without the disruption of sprays or misting systems.
• App-Enabled, On-Demand Control: Activate, schedule and monitor the system remotely via the LIV+2 app, with added voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home (available in July).
• Long-Lasting Refills: Professional-grade 1.7-ounce refills, available through pest control professionals, provide extended full season protection for most home users with refill-runout notifications through the App.
• Built for Outdoor Residential and Commercial Use: From everyday backyards to restaurants, resorts and senior living spaces, LIV 2.0 delivers discreet, large-scale mosquito and no-see-um protection zone that helps keep outdoor spaces comfortable.

LIV 2.0 is available nationwide through Thermacell professional installers. Systems are customized based on property layout and coverage needs.

About Thermacell

Thermacell Repellents Inc., designs, manufactures and markets zone mosquito repellent and insect control solutions. Thermacell repellers have been in the market for over 25 years, with tens of millions of devices being sold in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Thermacell.com/series/liv

<p>The post Thermacell: LIV 2.0 first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/thermacell-liv-2-0/
Sacramento CA