Kingfish Pest Control makes 100 fastest-growing businesses led by University of Georgia Alumni list

Brian and Kristin Lunsford. PHOTO COURTESY OF KINGFISH PEST CONTROL

Jacksonville, Fla.-based Kingfish Pest Control has been named to the University of Georgia (UGA) Alumni Association’s 2025 Bulldog 100, a list of the 100 fastest-growing businesses owned or led by UGA graduates.

Kingfish Pest Control is owned by UGA graduate Brian Lunsford. Lunsford’s former company, Inspect-All Services, made the Bulldog 100 list for nine consecutive years before Lunsford and his brother, Brandon, sold it in 2019.

“After selling Inspect-All in 2019, I essentially started over with Kingfish,” Brian Lunsford explained. “It was always my hope to one day get back on the Bulldog 100. This was our first opportunity to be nominated and I’m thrilled that Kingfish made it. This honor is possible because of our team.”

In addition to Kingfish Pest Control, Lunsford, along with his wife, Kristin, also own four other Florida-based companies: LunsPro Inspections, Jacksonville Real Producers, JoyLights and Fix-it Flamingo Home Services. Kingfish is a partner of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars.

Each year, Bulldog 100 applicants are measured by their business’ compounded annual growth rate during a three-year period. The Atlanta office of Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors, a Bulldog 100 partner since the program began in 2009, verified the information submitted by each company.

“These alumni represent the entrepreneurial spirit and drive that is intrinsic to every Georgia Bulldog,” said Adam Roell, executive director of alumni relations at UGA. “We are so proud to celebrate all their hard work and to honor them as leaders and innovators of their industries.”

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Sacramento CA

Three Waynes Pest Control team members earn ACE Certifications

Sam Walker, Waynes Pest Control (left) and Justin Morrow, Waynes Pest Control (right). PHOTO: WAYNES PEST CONTROL

Birmingham, Ala.-based Waynes Pest Control revealed that Technical Services Director Mark Freeman, Service Center Leader Justin Morrow and Pest Supervisor Sam Walker have all earned their Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) certification.

Mark Freeman

This certification, awarded by the Entomological Society of America (ESA), requires the passing of a comprehensive exam that covers various aspects of entomology, pest management and integrated pest management (IPM). This process ensures that certified individuals possess a deep understanding of the science behind pest control and are equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge.

Freeman, Morrow and Walker join Tim Kendrick as Waynes Pest Control team members who have earned ACE certification.

“We are thrilled to recognize and congratulate these three individuals, as this certification not only signifies their world-class expertise in entomology and their dedication to excellence but also highlights our core values of courage, perseverance, integrity and character,” said Trey Strickland, BCE, and vice president of operations.

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Sacramento CA

VPMA board names inaugural recipient of Impact Award

VPMA President John Reid, Accel Pest and Termite Control, presents the inaugural VPMA Board Impact Award to Carley Church, Getem Services. PHOTO: VPMA

The Virginia Pest Management Association (VPMA) named Carley Church, Getem Services, as the inaugural recipient of the VPMA Board Impact Award. The award was presented on Nov. 13, 2024, during Pest Fest, held in conjunction with the State Technical Meeting (STM) in Richmond, Va.

In its 76 years of serving the pest control community across Virginia, VPMA has been shaped by the dedication and contributions of countless board members and volunteer leaders. These individuals have been instrumental in building VPMA into the adaptive and responsive organization it is today. To honor such contributions formally, VPMA established the Board Impact Award.

Church has distinguished herself as a leader within VPMA. Appointed as the Tidewater regional director in May 2024 to fill a vacancy, Carley became both the youngest and newest member of the board.

“Carley’s passion for the pest management industry and her commitment to advancing VPMA’s mission have been nothing short of extraordinary,” said John Reid, VPMA president. “It was my distinct pleasure to present her with the first-ever Board Impact Award and to recognize the significant mark she has already made on our organization.”

Taking on the role of chair of the membership committee, Church seamlessly transitioned into leading the newly formed member/marketing committee. Her leadership was instrumental in implementing an ambitious new marketing plan for VPMA and the STM. This initiative culminated in a remarkable 20 percent increase in attendance at the 2024 State Technical Meeting.

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Sacramento CA

SpringGreen: Lawn, Tree, Pest Control Franchise

IMAGE: SPRINGGREEN

Founded in 1977, SpringGreen offers lawn, tree and pest services to more than 7,500 communities nationwide. Opportunities may exist for you to diversify or convert your business, sell your business or to become a designated certified applicator. SpringGreen offers proven marketing and operational systems designed to grow your recurring revenue and build financial stability more effectively than going it alone.

SpringGreen’s Mission

Per its web page on the subject:

Spring Green is an organization made up of smart and passionate people. Our purpose outlines a noble cause, and our services are impactful to the families we serve, the environment and the franchise owners who operate as our strategic partners. Spring Green is an exceptional organization made up of special people doing great things.

• We provide services that beautify our environment through higher standards of Quality, Service and Professionalism.
• We believe our mission transcends lawn care or the self-interest of any one individual. Of the many benefits an organization can contribute to society, beautifying the environment ranks among the most worthwhile.
• By taking our mission across the country through our network of franchise owners, everyone associated with SpringGreen benefits:
  • Our customers benefit by receiving remarkable services.
  • Our associates benefit from rewarding and fulfilling careers.
  • Our franchise owners benefit from owning successful businesses they can be proud of.
  • SpringGreen benefits from an expanding system of successful, strategic partners.

SpringGreenFranchise.com

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Sacramento CA

Massey Services participates in several charitable initiatives for the 2024 holiday season

Massey Services celebrated the 2024 holiday season by initiating several charitable initiatives.

The company, which is headquartered in Orlando, Fla., was one of the presenting sponsors for Winter on the Avenue in partnership with the city of Winter Park, Fla. The event features the lighting of both the Christmas tree and the Hanukkah Menorah, as well as holiday carolers, children’s holiday art and snow slides. In addition to this event, Massey Services also sponsored the annual pancake breakfast fundraiser during the annual Christmas parade. All funds raised support the Youth Leaders Program for the Winter Park Chamber.

Massey Services was also a supporting sponsor of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Pops in the Park, a free holiday concert in a popular outdoor amphitheater on Park Avenue in Winter Park.

Corporate team members at the company headquarters also partnered with the Orlando Day Nursery to adopt 77 children’s holiday wish lists to ensure they received gifts over the holidays. The Orlando Day Nursery provides childcare to children from six weeks to five years old. The nursery is in downtown Orlando with a mission to “develop lifelong learners through a high-quality and nurturing experience that builds a solid foundation for children and their families.”

“Every year, our company selects several organizations to support over the holiday season,” said Andrea Massey-Farrell, president and CEO of the Harvey and Carol Massey Foundation and senior vice president of community relations at Massey Services. She is also the daughter of Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Harvey Massey (Class of 2008).“It’s important for us to give back to our communities, and through our sponsorships, we can ensure some of the favorite holiday traditions continue.”

In December 2024, Massey Services was recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as the second-largest philanthropic company in Central Florida. The company donated more than $2 million in charitable contributions and provided more than $100,000 of in-kind services to non-profit organizations in the past year. Additionally, team members invested more than 5,000 volunteer hours to charities.

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Sacramento CA

Connecticut Pest Control Association reveals 2025 board members

The association’s annual holiday dinner and meeting, held at Mix Prime Steakhouse in Woodbury, Conn., brought together board and committee members to celebrate the occasion. PHOTO: CTPCA

The Connecticut Pest Control Association (CTPCA) recently revealed its new executive board and board of directors. The newly elected leadership team will officially assume their roles in January 2025.

The 2025 board of directors:

• President: Lance Trovato, Verdant Pest Control
• Vice President: John Rosario, ProSource Pest Solutions
• Treasurer: Emilio Polce, Rid-A-Bug Exterminating Co.
• Assistant Treasurer: Bob Scribner, Scribner Pest & Wildlife Control
• Secretary: Lorenz Bracco, JP McHale
• Assistant Secretary: Bill Grey, Terminx
• Immediate Past President: King Jones III, CT Pest Solutions
• Allied Director: Sheila Haddad, Bell Laboratories
• Director: Anthony Giovanni, Verdant Pest Control
• Director: Jeff Millette, Millette Pest Control
• Director: Heather Millette, Millette Pest Control
• Director: JD Dejesus, Big Blue Bug

Additionally, the association honored Sheila Haddad of Bell Laboratories with the “Joe Giamio” award, which was presented by Giaimo himself. The Joe Giaimo Advocacy Award is designed to recognize excellence in the industry; the recipient exemplifies leadership, mentorship and advocacy for the industry with a minimum of 10 years of industry experience. Haddad is widely respected for her unwavering dedication to education and commitment to the pest control industry. Later, Giaimo, a former CTPMA president, closed out the event with a magic show.

About the Connecticut Pest Control Association

The Connecticut Pest Control Association (CTPCA) was established in 1939, with its earliest meetings held at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in New Haven. Since its founding, the association has supported pest control operators through training programs, Continuing Education Units (CEUs), business resources, and legislative advocacy. With members from across Connecticut, CTPCA’s annual fall training seminar also attracts professionals from Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island.

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Target Specialty Products: Strike Max Alacer Gel Baits

IMAGE: TARGET SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

 Discover the ultimate solution for eliminating ants and cockroaches with Strike Max Alacer Gel Baits. This premium gel formulation is designed to target infestations at their source, ensuring maximum effectiveness and ease of use. Key features include:

• Highly effective active ingredient (AI): Indoxacarb disrupts pests’ life cycles by briefly delaying disposal, allowing bait transfer to harborage sites for widespread control.
• Versatile and convenient: The smooth, odorless and non-staining gel works effectively both indoors and outdoors.
• Enhanced longevity: The gel locks in moisture to maintain appeal to pests over extended periods.
• Food-safe application: It’s approved for use in food-handling establishments when used as directed.
• Comprehensive pest control: Strike Max Alacer Ant Gel Bait targets all life stages of ants, providing thorough eradication.

Labeled species include:

• Cockroaches: German, American, Australian, brown, smoky brown, Oriental, brown-banded and Asian.
• Ants: Argentine, acrobat, big-headed, carpenter, cornfield, crazy, field, German, ghost, harvester, honey, little black, odorous house, pavement, pharaoh, pyramid, red imported fire, rover, thief and white-footed.

About Target Specialty Products

With more than 80 years of industry leadership,  Target Specialty Products delivers innovative solutions and trusted expertise in pest control, vector management, and turf and ornamental care. Offering a wide range of products, application equipment, and educational programs, it strives to empower professionals with its 46 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Target-Specialty.com

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Sacramento CA

Pelsis: Digital Halo 30 LED

IMAGE: PELSIS

The new Digital Halo 30 LED unit combines the renowned Halo light-emitted diode (LED) insect light trap (ILT) with advanced Pelsis Digital technology, providing real-time monitoring and data-driven insights. Equipped with a built-in camera, it enables remote access to high-resolution glue board images, facilitating detailed insect identification. The Pelsis Digital Halo 30 LED leverages state-of-the-art, artificial intelligence (AI) technology to generate comprehensive reports on insect activity — including glue board capacity, total insect count and trend analysis. Personalized alerts for spikes in insect count and device status, combined with real-time data and insights, enable timely and informed decision-making.

About Pelsis

Founded in 1984, Pelsis is based in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, England, and operates from 18 locations worldwide. With distribution centers in the UK, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark and the USA, plus a number of global logistics partners, Pelsis supplies customers in more than 80 countries. Its family of brands for the professional pest management industry and related industries include AgriSense, B&G Equipment, Bird-B-Gone, Brandenburg, Curtis Dyna-Fog, Denka International, Edialux Professional Products, GreenProtect, Insect-O-Cutor, Luxan, Network, P+L Systems, Pest-Stop, Silvandersson and Synergetic.

In 2023, Pelsis adopted an updated, customer-first growth-focused strategy under new CEO Alex Ashmore. “We are committed to building ‘One Pelsis’ — a unified company, greater than the sum of its parts, that stands for excellence, performance, teamwork and customer focus,” he said in a news release. “2024 is a pivotal year for Pelsis and our family of leading brands, as we strive for continuous improvement with an ever-increasing focus on digital products and services to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

Pelsis-ILT.com/us/products/digital-halo-30-led

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Why the once “known” range and behavior of commensal rodents can no longer be a go-to resource

Isabelle Lucero

J.T. Eaton

The once “known” range and behavior of commensal rodents can no longer be a go-to resource. With climate change causing rodent species to expand their range, we now see a wider distribution of commensal rodents and an increase in rodent-borne diseases.

Start each inspection by identifying the pest species present — there may be more than one — and what behaviors you observe at that specific location. Treat each location as a unique situation. This extends to the tools you use as well. Different issues result in different treatments.

Next, identify your legal constraints for product usage at that location. You are liable for misuse of products, so check local restrictions and the product label. For rodenticides, you must look at state restrictions and always use a bait station that is weighted or secured, with the rodenticide baits secured safely inside the station.

Finally, remember that your tools, traps and baits are not magic. They require the skill
and know-how of a trained technician. If they are failing, change your strategy.

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Sacramento CA

TAP Pest Control Insulation’s turnkey program helps you launch your attic insulation service

Chris White, director of sales and business development for TAP Pest Control Insulation, explains the company’s turnkey program, which serves as a guide for those who are new to insulation services.

Transcription

Hi, my name is Chris White. I’m from Tap Pest Control Insulation. I’m the director of sales and business development. A lot of our customers who come to us are interested in starting a TAP program, but really have no idea how to do it. It is sort of a separate type of process and type of service than what they’re used to.

Although it is an EPA-registered pesticide and acts as a pesticide in the attic, the insulation aspect of it is something that’s a little bit different. So we’ve developed a turnkey program that actually makes getting into the business very, very easy. So what we’ll do is we’ll talk a little bit with the customer about what’s required on startup costs and how to actually sell the program, once they see the opportunity to get into it, then we go ahead and get them to order the equipment and get everything going. And as we do that, there’s a lot of little extra homework in there. We want to develop a rate card. We want to develop contracts for the homeowner so they have something to give the homeowner as a contract for the job. We also talk about the workflow process. How does it go from a sold job to an installed job and all the steps in between.

In addition, once we get all of that information, I’m able to put a training program together to train not only their sales team, but we can also train their install team on how to put the product in, because a lot of that is also very new to them. So by going through all of the different items and requirements in an attic, between recess light covers and baffles in the attic, and making sure the attic is breathing. We go through all of that to train them on the equipment that we have, and the equipment that we have, both include the vacuums and the blowing equipment. That’s also that’s part of the initial purchase.

So when you get started, you’re never out on a limb, because the way we look at it is we want you to be successful. So we’re not interested in just selling you the equipment and telling you good luck. We want to be with you throughout that process so that when you get going, you’re going to be successful, and therefore we’re going to be successful.

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Sacramento CA

5 questions with John Steenstra, ACE

John Steenstra, ACE

John Steenstra, ACE, a regional quality assurance supervisor for Rose Pest Solutions, Sparta, Mich., was awarded the 2024 Daniel A. Baldwin Industry Grant through the Pi Chi Omega Industry Grant Program (IGP). The pest control industry fraternity created the IGP to help pest management professionals (PMPs) achieve career goals outside the typical university scholarship scenario.

In addition to the Baldwin grant, which is funded by Hawx Services in honor of its technical services VP — and PMP Editorial Advisory Board (EAB) member — Dan Baldwin, BCE, there is the Gene White Field Excellence Grant, created through a donation by Rentokil Terminix in 2023. Additional funding for the White grant was provided in 2024 by PMP Editorial Advisory Board (EAB) member Doug Foster and the Indiana Pest Management Association in memory of the late Gene White, BCE, of Rentokil. We caught up with Steenstra to learn more.

1. You’ve been in the industry since 2003. How did you get your start back then?

My cousin worked at Rose Pest Solutions in Grand Rapids, Mich., and suggested I apply as a technician to help pay for college. I soon realized that in pest control, there is always a new puzzle, problems to solve, people to meet, places to visit and cool new insects to learn about. The biology and habits of insects are amazing. It was such an exciting experience that I asked myself, “Why am I paying for college when I have something I love to do right in front of me?”

2. How did you learn about the Pi Chi Omega grant?

I learned about it through Mark “Shep” Sheperdigian, BCE, our vice president, and Mark “VeeDub” VanderWerp, BCE, our manager of education and training. Earlier this year, VeeDub sent a company-wide email explaining the benefits and opportunities the grant could provide. After looking into the details, I thought, “Why not me?” It seemed like such a great opportunity to further my education and expertise in my trade. I am certainly grateful for the Pi Chi Omega grant.

3. You used the grant to earn certification in food safety auditing. Could you tell us a little more about that?

Food safety and third-party audit schematics play a major role in modern commercial pest management. Global food safety, regulatory and customer standards continue to change and evolve. With the grant, I was able to complete basic and advanced internal auditing certification courses from Zosi Learning. This helped me gain a better understanding of how to conduct both facility-wide and partial process audits. My duties at Rose Pest Solutions include conducting facility assessments to meet third-party audit requirements and Global Food Safety Initiative, or GFSI, standards. I am also tasked with auditing our service personnel for quality standards and policy compliance. The training I completed through the generosity of Pi Chi Omega helped me better understand how to organize an audit and the necessity of following “checklists” to maintain objectives.

4. What advice do you have for other PMPs who are thinking of applying?

The IGP offers wonderful opportunities to assist with continued education. This training has helped me improve my skill set and, therefore, has helped our industry as a whole. I am grateful to Pi Chi Omega for this support. If you are reading this, ask yourself, “Why not me?”

5. How can PMPs learn more about Pi Chi Omega’s IGP?

There is a spring deadline of March 15, 2025, and a fall deadline of Sept. 15, 2025. The fraternity lays out everything you need to know to qualify and apply online. I believe the more qualified, confident and informed we are as PMPs, the better we can represent our industry. And the more we can support and further this industry, the better off we all will be.

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Be meticulous and calculated to attain effective rodent control

Dr. Chris Keefer, technical services manager at Syngenta Professional Pest Management

Syngenta

For effective rodent control, it’s important to be meticulous and calculated.

For example:

• Know the differences among the three common commensal rodents: house mice (Mus musculus), roof rats (Rattus rattus) and Norway rats (R. norvegicus).
• Be familiar with all types of construction used in your markets. Visit with a builder to learn more, visit structures in various construction phases, and build a teaching reference — a notebook with pictures — on construction for your company. This is important for accurately identifying areas and harborages prone to rodent infestation in different structure types.
• During inspections, make diagrams, take pictures and use technology such as thermal imaging cameras to help document conducive conditions.
• Determine what rodents feed on within the account and use that as a trap lure. If unsuccessful, use the opposite as a lure — sugar vs. protein, for example.
• If possible, approximate a commercial structure model within your facility for training. Set up zones of storage and non-storage, inspection aisles with widths between 18 and 24 inches, airflow issues and food spills. Remember, constant airflow causes rodents to lose body heat, which they do not like. Areas full of debris and congestion are more rodent-friendly because they decrease airflow.

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Sacramento CA

Boston partners with LiphaTech to adopt IGI CO₂ technology for rodent abatement

Boston’s inspectional services members during IGI CO2 training. (Photo courtesy of LiphaTech)

As part of the Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) unveiled earlier this year, members of the City of Boston’s Inspectional Services Department (ISD) are now trained in the use of IGI Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) powered by Liphatech. IGI CO₂ is an alternative solution registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for controlling burrowing rodents in municipal areas, including next to occupied buildings.

The partnership between Boston and Liphatech was initiated by John Ulrich, assistant commissioner of Boston’s Inspectional Services Department – Environmental Services. In the recent coordinated training effort lead by Barry Pitkoff, Liphatech’s Northeast technical manager in the U.S., ISD members received classroom continuing education focused on rodent behavior and inspection. Other activities were also completed, including instruction on IGI CO₂ system assembly and in-the-field treatment of active rodent burrows at a public Boston location.

Under the direction of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, the BRAP is a coordinated, multi-agency initiative to mitigate the rodent population in Boston and provide great quality of life for residents and visitors.

“We sincerely appreciate Liphatech’s expertise in guiding us on the use of IGI Carbon Dioxide (CO₂),” said Ulrich. “Thanks to their support, Boston’s environmental sanitation inspectors are now equipped to use this cutting-edge rodent control tool. With proper training, our inspectors can administer CO₂ directly at the source of infestations, even in close proximity to occupied properties.”

Liphatech’s IGI CO₂ is approved for use in municipal, residential, commercial and field settings. In the region, IGI CO₂ is also being utilized to eliminate rodents at New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments.

“We are excited to be a part of this proactive effort to help Boston strategically implement aggressive rodent control where rodents are a problem throughout the city,” said Pitkoff. “We intend to fully support this effort with both IGI technology and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies such as removing rodent food sources.”

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Sacramento CA

Photo Finish: Mountains of fun at MGK’s PestFest 2024

With lively conversations, unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views, PestFest 2024 was a perfect way for MGK to wrap up another successful PestWorld. The event, which has become an MGK tradition, took place Oct. 25 on the Front Range Lawn of the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Denver, Colo.

Among the event’s highlights were the live wolves, which fascinated attendees and brought a unique, up-close look at these incredible animals, and the popular hat station, where guests could choose a custom PestFest hat as a souvenir. The photo stations, especially the 360-degree photo booth, were another crowd favorite, allowing everyone to capture their party memories in a fun, engaging way. We’re grateful to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) for hosting another fantastic PestFest with us, and we’re looking forward to next year’s PestWorld in Orlando, Fla.

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Sacramento CA

Kness Pest Defense: Ants-No-More Ant Bait Station

IMAGE: KNESS PEST DEFENSE

The Ants-No-More Ant Bait Station is a durable, easy-to-use solution for effective ant control. Built to withstand outdoor conditions, it protects the bait from weather and tampering while offering dual entry points for worker ants. Once inside, ants carry the bait back to the colony, targeting the source to eliminate the problem. The station works with both liquid and granular baits, making it ideal for any infestation. Trusted by pest management professionals for residential and commercial use, the Ants-No-More Ant Bait Station delivers long-term performance. Eliminate ants with a solution that works harder so you don’t have to.

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. Kness, a Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer (Class of 2024), 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.

Kness.com

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WSDA, USDA complete eradication of northern giant hornet from the United States

WSDA’s hornet eradication team after removing hornets from the tree at the first U.S. hornet nest detection in October 2020, were from left, Chris Looney, Cassie Cichorz, Sven Spichiger and Rian Wojahn. PHOTO: WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE)

After three years without confirmed detections, the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have declared the northern giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), previously known as the “murder hornet,” officially eradicated from the United States.

“We’re pleased to announce the eradication of the northern giant hornet in Washington state,” Derek Sandison, WSDA director, said. “I’m incredibly proud of our team, which has dedicated years of hard work to safeguarding our state and the nation from this invasive threat to our native pollinators and agriculture. I’d also like to acknowledge the federal, state and local support that made this feat possible.”

PHOTO: WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

The northern giant hornet was first detected in North America in British Columbia, Canada, in August 2019 and confirmed in Washington state in December 2019. Although the two detections were close in time and location, DNA evidence suggests there were two different introductions, as specimens from each location appeared to originate from different countries.

“We are proud of this landmark victory in the fight against invasive species,” said Dr. Mark Davidson, deputy administrator at USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. “The success of this effort demonstrates what’s possible when agencies and communities unite toward a common goal. By tackling this threat head-on, we protected not only pollinators and crops, but also the industries, communities and ecosystems that depend on them.”

Had the hornets become established in the country, they could have posed a significant threat to honey bees and other pollinators and native insects. Northern giant hornets are able to kill an entire honey bee hive in as little as 90 minutes. They also pose a threat to human health, as their sting is more dangerous than that of a honey bee.

“Without the public’s support for this effort, it is unlikely we would be announcing the eradication of northern giant hornet today,” Sven Spichiger, WSDA pest program manager, said. “All of our nest detections resulted directly or indirectly from public reports. And half of our confirmed detections came from the public. The people of Washington can be proud that we did this by working together.”

Although unable to obtain the specimen, WSDA did place traps in the area and conduct outreach to encourage reports of additional suspected sightings. Neither trapping nor outreach yielded additional evidence of hornets in the area. WSDA will conduct trapping in the area in 2025 as a precautionary measure.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/19/wsda-usda-complete-eradication-of-northern-giant-hornet-from-the-united-states/
Sacramento CA

Keeping busy in the ‘fourth quarter’

Photo: Rudzhan Nagiev iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

In the December issue, I write about the business side of being in the fourth quarter of my career. But let’s talk about how retirement and our personal side, too.

When we get to the fourth quarter of our lives, we have decades of business and life experiences we can share. We can be of service to other organizations. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to serve on a board for either a for-profit or non-profit organization.

Work is important your entire life, but so is fun! It’s important to have a hobby or an activity at this stage. I finally have more time to snow ski, play golf, tennis, and yes, pickleball! Activities and hobbies get you moving and around people. Retirement is specific; it’s from a job, it is not retiring from your life. I am planning for my fourth quarter to be better and more fun than the first three.

Self-care is important as well, especially if you want to have fun. For me, lifting weights and doing cardio is an important part of my daily activities. All of us are aware of the countless articles and studies that tell us diet, exercise and sleep are critical for our health. In our fourth quarter, it only gets harder. I highly recommend a book I wish I had read in my 30s: Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia, MD, with Bill Gifford.

The two most important elements of my fourth quarter, however, are my family and my faith. Our families are our legacies. I want to spend time investing in their lives. One of the sweetest joys is to go to my grandchildren’s sporting events. Being there for them to support them and to see what incredible young girls and boys they are growing up to be. As for my faith, this time allows me to continue to learn more and grow stronger in the Word.

I hope I have given you “food for thought” to plan for your fourth quarter, no matter what your age. God willing, we will all experience a fourth quarter of life. Take care of you. God bless.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/19/keeping-busy-in-the-fourth-quarter/
Sacramento CA

Create a game plan for your fourth quarter

Jenkins and his wife, Kimberli, recently celebrated his birthday with a tropical getaway. PHOTO: RALEIGH JENKINS

Most people reading this will agree with me: The pest control industry is and has been such a blessing. It is a great business for serving others, providing a good living, and offering the flexibility to allow some individual freedom to be with your family.

Now that I’m in my 60s, I can reflect on how it has blessed me. I am part of a men’s ministry that prompted me to reflect and look forward. As I approach the next chapter — the fourth quarter — of my life, a few thoughts come to mind.

Reflecting on a life well lived

The first quarter of my life, from childhood through early adulthood, was an amazing journey. Because I grew up in a family pest control business, we would openly discuss my dad’s business. He would share his challenges, triumphs and lessons learned with my brothers and me, typically at the dinner table.

The second quarter, in my 30s and 40s, primarily focused on building a business and growing and developing my family. It was a very intentional time. I had a clear vision of where I was going thanks to my mom and dad, my brothers, and many amazing mentors and friends who all openly mentored and coached me during that time.

In the third quarter, my focus shifted. With grown children, a little more income, and a little more time, I found time to invest more in the business, travel and serve in other aspects.

But now, in my 60s, I am looking at the fourth quarter of my life, which includes my inevitable retirement. Many of us are looking at that quickly approaching day. But even for those of you who are decades away, your retirement day is inevitable — and God willing, all of us will have some golden years.

Making the transition

With lots of conversations with mentors and lots of reading, I have created a game plan that is important to me.

For me, retirement is not a final day when I just walk away from the business we have built over the past 38 years. I am fortunate to have three very bright and hardworking children and three very bright and hardworking in-law children, all in their 30s. They all work in the business in different capacities, and they each bring a special talent and skill set to the table.

Because of that luxury, I knew I would need to step out of the way sooner than later. So, we began planning for the transition about two years ago. We asked a mentor to step in. It took time, lots of discussion, and several drafts before we all could agree on a new structure. We now have a board of directors on which I serve as chairman.

I also physically moved out of the office, even though I’ve kept the title of company president. Somehow, mentally and visually, this has been helpful for the upcoming transition for my staff, management team and executive/ownership team. It also helped in transitioning my responsibilities.

In short: Make a plan. Write it down. Know where and how you can plug yourself in and work the plan. Challenge yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Good luck, and God bless.

Read more from Jenkins as he also shares more about retirement and the personal side of the fourth quarter of his career.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/19/create-a-game-plan-for-your-fourth-quarter/
Sacramento CA

Innolytics: OvoControl Urban Feeder

IMAGE: INNOLYTICS

The new OvoControl Urban Feeder is a state-of-the-art pigeon control solution designed for effective and precise bait distribution in public spaces. It is designed for permanent installation in public spaces such as parks, plazas, parking lots and other hard or paved surfaces where pigeons tend to gather. Resembling a trash receptacle, it seamlessly blends into its surroundings, ensuring minimal visual disruption. The protective cage at the base secures its advanced feeding mechanism, resulting in a robust and reliable solution for dispensing OvoControl.

About Innolytics

Innolytics is based in La Qunita, Calif. It is a privately held company developing contraceptive technology for wildlife. Innolytics’ product, OvoControl (brand of nicarbazin) represents contraceptive control for birds. OvoControl is available directly to pest management professionals through Innolytics or industry distributors.

OvoControl.com

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Sacramento CA

Boost your chances of successful trapping with prebaiting

Andrew Fisher, BCE, PHE

Neogen

Regardless of species, managing rat infestations can be more complex than addressing mouse problems. One key reason is a rat’s neophobia — its inherent fear of unfamiliar objects in its surroundings. To boost your chances of successful trapping, it is essential to prebait.

Prebaiting involves setting out traps without activating them at first. This process helps familiarize rats with the devices and diminishes their hesitation, allowing them to feel more at ease. Ideally, you should prebait for at least two weeks because the longer you can sustain this phase, the more effectively you can control the entire rat population.

Setting the traps during the initial treatment doesn’t allow rats to acclimate to the devices you’re using. Rats possess excellent memories and can easily recognize traps they have seen in their past. If they encounter a trap or witness another rat being captured, they will likely avoid that device style in the future. This is why prebaiting is essential at the start; it is the best chance to familiarize the rats with your traps before they become wary.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/18/boost-your-chances-of-successful-trapping-with-prebaiting/
Sacramento CA

2024 start-up stories in review: A year of ahas and accomplishments

PHOTO: IMAGEDB/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

As an entrepreneur, one of the most satisfying things that happens is when you get an “aha” moment — when you figure out something that will help your company run smoother, tighter and better financially.

After owning and operating my own business for many years, I had several aha moments, including:

• Switching my clients from bimonthly to quarterly.
• Creating personalized service agreements for all our initial services, as well as for recurring services.
• Switching from using power sprayer rigs to using backpack sprayers.
• Eating turkey sausage instead of pork sausage.
• When I finally realized that Earth, Wind & Fire were singing “Say, do you remember?” instead of “Suddenly, you’ll remember” in their 1978 hit, “September.”

Now that I have sold my business and am consulting, I get a thrill from an owner saying, “Ohhhh, that makes sense!” Over the past 12 months, there have been several significant moments with the four mentees who participated in our “Start-up” articles this year. As we wrap up 2024, let’s take one more look at our four companies.

Marcus Richardson

Marcus Richardson, Finally Pest Control, Fishers, Ind.

2023 = $382,000

2024 = Goal was $490,000; November projection is $500,000

2025 = Goal is $650,000

Aha moment: Pursuing the residential pest control market instead of focusing on just commercial accounts.

Zach Bernstein and Kiki Uher

Zach Bernstein and Kiki Uher of Bugsy’s Pest Solutions DeLand, Fla.

2023 = $333,000

2024 = Goal was $400,000. November projection is $430,000

2025 = Goal is $600,000

Aha moment: Hiring the right people and firing ineffective people. The hard truth is that we must hire and fire with our brains, not our hearts.

Gabe Seymour

Gabe Seymour of Pest Patrol, Portland, Ore.

2023 = $406,000

2024 = Goal was $525,000. November projection is $680,000

2025 = Goal is $1 million

Aha moment: Not giving away too much to clients. We worked on upselling rodent services, and the results have been incredible.

Joseph Nguyen of Habitat Pest Solutions, Ramsey, Minn.

Joseph Nguyen

2023 = $110,000

2024 = Goal was $220,000. November projection is $290,000

2025= Goal is $500,000

Aha moment: Getting organized. We worked to create service agreements and finalize standard operating procedures (SOPs).

It has been a fun year for my mentees. Bernstein, Nguyen and Seymour became new fathers in 2024. Richardson won a prestigious award from Indiana for his pest control prowess. Bernstein has been making incredible money via attic insulation, while Seymour has been doing the same in crawlspaces.

When running a business, you’ll have some low points along with your victories. While Nguyen hit a home run with his first-ever hire, his car got hit by another driver. The other three had to terminate underperforming employees.

Goals for 2025 include:

• Seymour wants to perfect his attic insulation services and hire an office staff member.
• Bernstein is looking to eliminate lawn care services so he and Uher can become laser-focused on general pest control.
• Richardson wants to hire another tech in 2025 and possibly offer health insurance to his employees.
• Nguyen wants to scale back on his wildlife services and focus on general pest control. He also wants to continue his networking efforts.

So, Start-up Stories 2.0 is in the books, and I have great news! I have been 9-for-9 mentoring start-up businesses since we started this project two years ago. Thankfully, I haven’t screwed up and put anyone out of business yet.

Next month, we are going to introduce the next wave of entrepreneurs who have agreed to let us all peek into their operations. Have a blessed finish to 2024 and good luck in 2025. pmp

Schopen is founder of Schopen Pest Solutions and RV There Yet Pest Consulting, Bartlesville, Okla. You can email him here.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/18/2024-start-up-stories-in-review-a-year-of-ahas-and-accomplishments/
Sacramento CA

BASF: Termite Bait Solutions

IMAGE: BASF

Flexibility is key when choosing the best termite service for your customers. BASF offers two baiting options that ensure you have the right solution for every job.

Advance Termite Bait Stations are a premier termite monitoring system. Trelona compressed termite bait is added to the stations only when termite activity is detected.

For homeowners who prefer the ultimate peace of mind, Trelona ATBS Annual Bait Stations are preloaded with the active ingredient before the stations are installed.

Termites find Trelona Annual and Advance stations quickly because of the station design, which translates to faster consumption of bait and faster elimination of termites (Source: 2012 University of Delaware, Graduate Research Dissertation).

Baiting solutions from BASF aren’t just excellent options for your customers, they’re good for your bottom line. That’s because you own the equipment and the accounts, and the flexible label gives you the option of conducting inspections just once a year, saving time and labor. The scannable radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags on the station lids make for quick detection and could save stations that might otherwise be considered lost because of overgrown shrubbery or other environmental conditions, helping you achieve even more time savings on-site.

About BASF

BASF Corp., headquartered in Florham Park, N.J., is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,000 employees in North America and had sales of $25.7 billion in 2022.

BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future by combining economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 110,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of its customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. BASF’s portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions.

PestControl.basf.us

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Sacramento CA

IN MEMORIAM: Dennis R. Judy

Dennis Judy, left, displays the Pi Chi Omega award he was presented by Glen Ramsey, Orkin, in 2019. PHOTO: PMP ARCHIVES

Dennis Ray Judy, owner of Judy’s Pest Services in Snellville, Ga., passed away after a battle with cancer on Dec. 15, 2024. He was 71, and had been in the industry for more than four decades. His career included Orkin Pest Control and Allgood Pest Services, teaching, training and inspiring many. He was also a longtime champion and former board member of industry fraternity Pi Chi Omega.

Preceded in death by his father, Paul David Judy, he is survived by his mother Elaine, wife Jeannie, sons Jeremy and wife Casey, Joshua and Nicholas, granddaughter Katelynn Decker and husband Zack, grandsons Tallyn Ray and Colton, great-grandchildren Kolter and Stetson Ray, and brother David and family.

Per an obituary posted by Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, Judy “cherished time spent with family, loved spoiling his grandchildren and was a passionate outdoorsman, enjoying both hunting and fishing with his sons and grandchildren. He will be remembered as a loyal husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and a man of strong conviction and honor.”

Online condolences may be left at WagesFuneralHome.com. At press time, the Judy family requests some time to privately mourn his passing. No funeral arrangements have been made, but will be shared once confirmed.

The Pest Management Professional staff offers their sincere condolences to Judy’s family, friends and colleagues.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/17/in-memoriam-dennis-r-judy/
Sacramento CA

Researchers map bed bug genome

Photo: animatedfunk/E+/Getty Images

Thanks to a new University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) study published in the Journal of Heredity, scientists now have a better genetic understanding of the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius.

“This new high-quality reference genome provides a valuable resource for enhancing scientific investigations into this medically and economically resurging pest,” Dr. Todd Castoe, UTA professor of biology and an author of the study, said in a news release.

For the study, Dr. Castoe and UTA graduate student Yannick Franciol collaborated with researchers from multiple institutions, including Virginia Tech, the University of Arkansas, and Harvard University, to sequence the insect’s genome. By using advanced sequencing technologies, they created a detailed genetic map of the bed bug, revealing its 15 chromosomes. 

This breakthrough will help researchers understand the genetic basis of bed bug biology, evolution and insecticide resistance. Specifically, identifying the sex chromosomes could lead to innovative pest control strategies targeting sex-specific traits.

“The creation of a chromosome-level reference genome gives us a new and highly accurate contiguous map of the bed bug’s genetic material,” Dr. Castoe said in the news release. “This new foundational resource will allow researchers to further understand the genetic basis of traits for the insect that cause issues such as insecticide resistance, which is crucial for developing more effective pest control strategies.”

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/17/researchers-map-bed-bug-genome/
Sacramento CA

Arrow Exterminators: Merger Opportunities

IMAGE: ARROW EXTERMINATORS

Based in Atlanta, Ga., Arrow Exterminators has a modern fleet of more than 3,175 vehicles, 184 service centers, over 3,400 team members with revenues exceeding $413 million, and has been named a Top USA Workplace for four years in a row. Featuring QualityPro accreditation by the National Pest Management Association, the company offers innovative and environmentally responsible services to protect homes and businesses of customers in Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

The company is led by Tim Pollard, president and COO, Emily Thomas Kendrick, CEO, and Chairman — and Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer — Joe Thomas (Class of 2009). Arrow was founded by industry veteran Starkey Thomas and his wife, Jean, in 1964; it has been acquiring like-minded, quality pest control firms with the same hardworking values as its team since its first acquisition in 1988. Today, Arrow is considered to be the second-largest family-owned pest and termite control company in the United States. It specializes in general pest control, termite protection, mosquito prevention and control, wildlife control and exclusion, handyman services, insulation services, new-construction treatments and more, for both residential and commercial accounts.

As a third-generation business, Arrow respects the hard work that goes into building pest management companies and understands the value of providing a solid foundation to structure mutually beneficial agreements. Arrow strives to be a partner that’s involved at every step along the way, providing a smooth transition for your customers and your team.

Whether you’re ready to sell or just exploring options, call 800-281-8978 or visit online.

ArrowExterminators.com/mergers

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Sacramento CA

Why developing an action threshold is a key step in integrated pest management

Sylvia Kenmuir, BCE

BASF

In an integrated pest management (IPM) program, one of the most important steps is setting an action threshold, or “the tipping point.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines an action threshold as “the point at which pest populations or environmental conditions indicate that pest control action is necessary.” (Source)

Farmers use specific metrics in agriculture to decide when pests or weather pose an economic threat, often defined by numbers. Once the threshold is reached, action is taken to protect crops.

Establishing an action threshold in structural settings can be more complex and depends on the account. Commercial establishments may be subject to audits defining that threshold, while personal tolerance plays a key role in residential settings.

Monitoring is crucial in all cases to identify pests and estimate their populations. Tools such as game cameras, smart devices, non-active monitoring baits and visual signs (such as rodent droppings) can help.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2024/12/16/why-developing-an-action-threshold-is-a-key-step-in-integrated-pest-management/
Sacramento CA