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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Sacramento CA

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Sacramento CA

Cetane Associates: Events calendar page

IMAGE: CETANE ASSOCIATES

Looking to connect with Cetane, a leading provider of financial advisory services to pest management and other home services industries? Use its newly introduced online Events Calendar. Calendar events listed include conferences, meetings and trade shows where Cetane Associates representatives will attend. Dates, locations and registration links are easily accessible. If you would like to have a confidential meeting during the event regarding advising on sales, spin-offs and acquisitions, or to perform valuation and ad hoc corporate finance assignments, contact Tara at tmccauley@cetane.com to make arrangements.

About Cetane Associates

Founded in 2007, Cetane Associates is a financial advisory firm headquartered in New Milford, Conn. The firm offers services primarily to home services companies in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, valuations, accounting and transition planning.

Cetane’s pest and lawn director, Bob Williamson, is an online columnist for Pest Management Professional (PMP). He serves on the Pennsylvania Pesticide Advisory Board, is former president of the Lawn Care Association of Pennsylvania and former president of Warrington PA Rotary Club. For more than 30 years, Williamson worked with Moyer, a large Mid-Atlantic residential service provider. Williamson has managed services including heating oil, propane, plumbing, home security, swimming pool, lawn and tree care, and pest control. Recent PMP columns by Williamson include:

• Promote these 8 elements for brand growth
• Big fans vs. squeaky wheels
• Eat your vegetables and raise your prices
• First place in consistency
• Just ask: It’s free and worth way more
• Book the call
• Don’t blow the lay ups
• Defining the problem of staff retention

Cetane.com/events

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Sacramento CA

Registration open for NPMA’s 2025 Legislative Day

GRAPHIC: NPMA

Registration is open for the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA) 2025 Legislative Day program, which will take place March 9 – 11, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The event allows industry professionals to advocate directly with Congressional representatives on critical issues affecting the pest management industry.

The program features thought-provoking keynotes, expert panels and focused sessions on emerging policy issues and industry challenges. Participants are encouraged to join influential board and committee meetings throughout the event. Additionally, a special Kids’ Day program allows attendees to bring the whole family on March 10. The program concludes on March 11 with advocacy sessions on Capitol Hill, where attendees voice industry priorities to Congressional representatives.

Each year, Legislative Day provides networking opportunities with industry leaders while advancing the future of pest management through meaningful policy discussions and advocacy. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with colleagues from across the industry at receptions on March 9-10. New to the program this year is a bourbon tasting on Sunday night benefiting the Pest Management Foundation.

Early-bird registration rates are available through Feb. 14, 2025. NPMA encourages attendees to register by this date to take advantage of the lowest pricing available. For registration and additional information, visit here.

About the National Pest Management Association

The National Pest Management Association is a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members. It was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. The association has had many notable leaders over the years, including Pest Management Professional Hall of Famers Bill Buettner (Class of 1998), Dr. Ralph Heal (Class of 2003), Dr. Phil Spear (Class of 2004), and Bob Rosenberg (Class of 2013), to name just a few.

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Sacramento CA

Explore your mosquito expertise with PMP‘s Tech Test

The aggressive, day-biting woodland pool mosquito (Ochlerotatus canadensis) is a known vector of several diseases, including West Nile virus and dog heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis). PHOTO: GENE WHITE

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How mosquitoes transmit disease

A mosquito “bite” occurs when a female mosquito uses a piercing-sucking action to take a blood meal. The female mosquito pierces the victim’s skin with her proboscis, injects her saliva and then sucks the blood through her proboscis. If the victim’s blood contains organisms that cause disease, the organisms get sucked into the mosquito’s stomach and may be injected into another victim’s bloodstream.

Editor’s Note: Questions for this month’s test were contributed by Doug Foster; Paul Hardy; Glen Ramsey, BCE; Jerry Schappert; and Mark VanderWerp, BCE. Want to know how you did? The answers are listed below.

Answers to December Tech Test

1. True, 2. b, 3. True, 4. d, 5. True, 6. a, 7. True, 8. a, 9. True, 10. True

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Sacramento CA

Observe rodent activity keenly to achieve better control

Patrick Lynch, ACE
Chief Commercial Officer, Bell Laboratories, and President, Bell Sensing Technologies (BST)

Bell Laboratories

Rodent control requires a robust knowledge of rodent biology, habits and the ability to observe rodent activity keenly.

Many signs point to the presence of rodents. Droppings, rub marks, consumed bait, and harborage are all visual cues of a rodent infestation.

The introduction of rodent monitoring technology provides pest management professionals (PMPs) with never-before-available, concrete evidence of where rodents have been active. Smart bait stations, multiple-catch traps and snap traps automatically collect rodent activity data, showing recorded timestamps of when rodent activity occurs. This information allows PMPs to track activity, establish thresholds, evaluate how their service is performing and ultimately, provide their customer with a superior rodent control service.

Better, faster, more highly reviewed rodent control fosters revenue and profitability growth for pest control firms and a happier and more loyal workforce.

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Sacramento CA

Industry up 12 percent in October, per Blair/PCO M&A Specialists index

The total William Blair/PCO M&A Specialists Pest Index increased 12 percent year-over-year in October 2024, accelerating from the 9 percent result in September. The October results are above the long-term average pest index growth rate of 10 percent.

“After normalizing for one extra workday in October, index performance was consistent with September and is essentially in line with the long-term historical average,” said William Blair Equity Researcher Tim Mulrooney. “On a sequential basis, the index increased 4 percent from September, which is strong relative to normal seasonal trends.”

Dan Gordon, CPA, Pest Management Professional’s financial columnist and a partner in PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists added, “This is great news for the industry. While over the past year or so our feeling that the revenue increases related to price increases to keep pace with inflation, it appears that as inflation is reverting back to the mean the industry increases seem to be real dollars.”

The month’s results by segment include:

• Residential Pest Index increased 12 percent year-over-year.
• Commercial Pest Index increased 15 percent year-over-year.
• Termite Index increased 11 percent year-over-year.
• Bed Bug Index increased 9 percent year-over-year.
• Mosquito Index increased 8 percent year-over-year.

About the William Blair/PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists Pest Index

The William Blair/PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists Pest Index tracks the monthly performance of 146 privately held pest control companies across 38 states with combined annual 2023 revenue of $515 million. The purpose of the report is to track the monthly performance of several different U.S. pest markets. It does not include residential door-to-door companies.

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Sacramento CA

Managing wood-destroying weevils: Prevention, identification and treatment strategies

Fig. 1 Adult Eastern wood weevils (Hexarthrum ulkei). PHOTO: DR. MOHAMMED EL DAMIR

Wood-destroying weevils, such as the Eastern wood weevil (Hexarthrum ulkei), are commonly found in indoor environments with high moisture levels. These insects infest decaying or damp wood, causing significant structural damage if left unchecked. While they do not pose direct health risks, their presence can compromise wooden structures, leading to costly repairs.

All cases of wood-destroying weevil activity we have encountered were associated with moist or damp wood. Persistent moisture, leaks or poor ventilation — common in areas like basements and crawl spaces — create ideal conditions for infestations. Conversely, dry, well-maintained wood is rarely affected.

Early signs and identification

The earliest sign of a wood-destroying weevil infestation is often the sighting of small beetles indoors, prompting individuals to submit pictures or samples for identification.

Fig. 2 Dead weevils are a sign of infestation. PHOTO: DR. MOHAMMED EL DAMIR

The commonly encountered Eastern wood weevil is a blackish beetle measuring less than 0.13 inch in length, characterized by its long snout and grooved elytra, or hardened wing covers. These beetles are often mistaken for Anobiidae species because of their similar head structure, with the head tucked beneath the first thoracic segment at a 90-degree angle to the body (see Fig. 1).

A thorough inspection is critical to uncover hidden damage and determine the extent of the infestation. Key indicators include dead weevils near wooden structures or windowsills (see Fig. 2) and sawdust accumulation near infested areas, signaling advanced activity (see Fig. 3). To assess the damage, inspect wood panels and structures; remove coverings to expose hidden areas; and determine the infestation’s scope (see Fig. 4). Next, evaluate the severity of structural damage to decide whether wood replacement is necessary. If these signs are widespread, prompt action is vital to prevent further deterioration.

Fig. 3 Accumulation of sawdust near infested wood, indicating advanced activity of wood-destroying weevils. PHOTO: DR. MOHAMMED EL DAMIR

Treatment

Effective management of wood-destroying weevils requires a combination of removal, treatment and prevention strategies:

Wood replacement: Remove infested or compromised wood and replace it with pressure-treated or borate-treated wood. These materials are designed to resist moisture and wood-destroying organisms (WDO), preventing future infestations.

Insecticide treatment: Combine borate-based and long-lasting insecticides for comprehensive control of wood-destroying pests. Borate solutions act as stomach poisons, halting the development of feeding insect stages while also suppressing fungal growth that may exacerbate the damage. Liquid insecticides, on the other hand, rapidly eliminate active pests to ensure effective control. For optimal results, use formulations that can penetrate deeply into the wood to reach larvae in their feeding zones. Apply these treatments thoroughly to exposed wood, surrounding areas, and all potential entry points to prevent future infestations and ensure long-term protection.

Fig. 4 Wood damage beneath wood panels caused by Eastern wood weevils. PHOTO: DR. MOHAMMED EL DAMIR

Prevention strategies

Recommended actions include:

• Repair leaks. Identify and fix any moisture-related causes or sources, such as roof, basement or plumbing leaks, to prevent wood-destroying pests.
• Control humidity. Use dehumidifiers or improve ventilation to reduce indoor moisture levels.
• Use treated materials. Incorporate treated wood in repairs or construction to help prevent wood-destroying pests.

Management

Wood-destroying weevils thrive in moist environments and cause significant structural damage if not managed. Infestations are primarily linked to moisture, leaks and poor ventilation. Early signs, such as beetles and sawdust, signal the need for immediate action. Effective management involves replacing infested wood with treated materials, applying borate-based and long-lasting insecticides, and addressing moisture issues through leak repairs and humidity control to prevent future infestations.

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Sacramento CA

PelGar USA: Roban Gold Entrap

IMAGE: PELGAR USA

New Roban Gold Entrap monitoring gels are non-toxic and ready-to-use to entice rats and mice to rodent traps, stations and glue boards. Four flavors are available: Vanilla, Apple, Amaretto, and Peanut Butter. They have been specially formulated to meet the behaviorial characteristics of rats while avoiding triggering rats’ neophobic tendencies. They are also attractive to mice, as well. Each 35-gram tube features its own plunger and cap, but can be used in most gel guns — including PelGar’s own Black Bait Gun — for ease of application. The gels are available in boxes of four, either mixed or single flavor. The product made its debut Feb. 28 exclusively at the Pest Management Professional Growth Summit in Orlando, Fla.

About PelGar

Based in the United Kingdom, PelGar provides products and expertise in more than 60 countries worldwide, including the United States. The company supports customers who are directly involved in controlling nuisance pests, national campaigns against the vectors of disease, and local and national Conservation in Partnership (CiP) projects. PelGar’s global network of experienced staff and in-country resources guarantee an exceptional level of service.

PelGar.co.uk/usa

 

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Sacramento CA

Pros share their best cockroach management strategies

GRAPHIC: PMP STAFF

We asked Pest Management Professional’s columnists and editorial advisory board members to share some of the best cockroach management lessons they’ve learned throughout their careers. Here are some of their responses from our December 2024 print edition.

PMP’s Editorial Advisory Board and Regular Contributors

Michael Broder

Greg Baumann: “Be flexible and inspect when cockroaches are most active, not just during the day.”

Michael Broder: “Don’t get stuck thinking cockroaches live only in dirty areas. Cockroaches can survive on anything, and we have found infestations in some of the cleanest areas imaginable. If you start to think they can’t be in a clean area, you’ve already lost.”

Foster Brusca: “Rotate your baits. Do not just use one bait forever; switch it up with a bait that has a different active ingredient and food attractant.”

Doug Foster: “Just when you think you’ve looked everywhere for the problem, keep looking. After years of battling cockroaches, this mantra never fails me.”

Jerry Schappert

Jerry Schappert, ACE: “Nothing surprises me anymore; I’ve been at it so long. However, when I think I’m on top of it — confident — I get whacked. Don’t get comfortable. That’s when you get behind the eight ball.”

Paul Hardy: “Cockroach management is more than just treatment. I’d say 60 percent of it is about professionalism — maintaining relationships with customers, sharing your knowledge, and showing up on time and dressed to play.”

Kurt Scherzinger

Eric Scherzinger: “Kill them all! Attack cockroaches with a flushing agent and vacuum them up as they are being flushed out. Then bait the areas heavily, but in the right spots.”

Kurt Scherzinger, ACE: “When going in for cleanouts, using a vacuum makes a world of difference.”

Pete Schopen: “Fecal focal point: ‘Find the poop; find the problem.’ Dr. Austin Frishman’s advice still holds true today as it did 40 years ago.”

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Sacramento CA

Viking Pest Control promotes two to leadership roles

Viking Pest Control, an Anticimex company based in Basking Ridge, N.J., promoted James McIntyre to president and Barbara Hess to vice president of operations. Both McIntyre and Hess have built the bulk of their careers at Viking, each contributing more than 20 years of expertise to the company. Both leaders will focus on enhancing operational efficiency, expanding service offerings and reinforcing Viking’s position as a trusted partner in protecting homes and businesses.

“I am confident that Jim and Barb will further strengthen our business and enhance the exceptional value we provide to our customers,” said Paul Bergmann, COO of Anticimex North America. “Their promotions underscore our commitment to investing in our team members as a core value. I look forward to collaborating with them in their new roles and seeing how their leadership propels Viking Pest Control into its next chapter of success.”

James McIntyre

McIntyre joined Viking Pest Control in 2005 as a technician and “quickly emerged as a natural leader,” per the news release. Over the years, he has excelled in every operational role, from technician and service manager to branch manager and vice president of operations. His leadership has fostered a “team-first” culture, driving improvement in employee retention and directly contributing to enhanced service levels and stronger customer loyalty. As VP of operations, McIntyre implemented a technician career path, providing a clear roadmap for growth and advancement. He also established a safety committee to prioritize on-the-job safety initiatives.

“I’m honored to lead Viking Pest Control and excited to work alongside our talented team to continue delivering top-tier service while leading in sustainability,” said McIntyre. “Our employees are the foundation of our success, and my focus will remain on prioritizing the health and safety of our people, customers and the environment. We’ll emphasize continuous training and professional growth by fostering an employee-first culture. I trust my team to make decisions, drive initiatives and embrace new ideas while celebrating successes and learning from challenges.”

Barbara Hess

Hess began her career with Viking Pest Control in 1998 as a customer service representative and has consistently advanced through the ranks. Most recently, she served as the branch manager for Viking’s New Jersey West location. Hess will apply her strategic expertise on a broader scale to improve Viking’s overall operations.

In recognition of her significant contributions to the pest management industry, Hess was honored with the prestigious National Pest Management Association Impact Award in 2024. Hess is committed to driving customer satisfaction, fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring each technician has the resources and support needed to succeed.

“Viking is an incredibly exciting and dynamic company, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a forward-thinking organization,” said Hess. “I look forward to collaborating with our passionate and dedicated team across our service areas to continue to provide the highest quality pest management solutions. Whether it’s protecting our clients’ homes, businesses or communities, our focus will always be on delivering exceptional service, building lasting relationships and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the company.”

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Sacramento CA

The Trojan Horse bait station from J.T. Eaton

“Diamond” Dale Baker, president of J.T. Eaton, shares more about the company’s Trojan Horse bait station, which is a fully integrated pest management system disguised as an attractive display. The unit features a customizable appearance, multiple entry points for pests and can house various control methods.

Transcription

Hey everybody, it’s “Diamond” Dale Baker with J.T. Eaton, aka J.T. Awesome. Anyways, one of the new things that we’re really talking about here at PestWorld 2024 is the new Trojan Horse bait station.

It’s actually a fully integrated pest management solution system, because it does everything. But what’s cool about it is it blends in with the aesthetic of any kind of retail or commercial area. So let’s say I’m at the Guns and Grocery store and I don’t want to have a couple of ugly bait stations outside of my doors or even inside of the store. You could have something that looks as gorgeous as this, wow, customized frame. You can put any kind of artwork you want in there. We have a nice little platform. We could order your digital artwork. It comes with a generic sign that says, Thank you, and on the flip side, it would say, welcome. The sign is removable if you are putting it outside, so you don’t have to worry about somebody walking away with it. Easy to replace the signage.

Also, the base is 10 pounds by itself, so you could just have the base out by itself. But we do offer this anchor that comes with it. That’s our leash, so that’s gonna be locked in the device. Now there’s two entrance ways for rodents or insects, so you can use this for any kind of pest control situation you’re looking for. Two options. We have the manual key, you stick it in the tray, pulls out. Or we have the swanky RFID card, holds a full size repeater, multiple catch live trap. Or you can use this for a full size rodenticide, snap trap, full size glue tray, growth inhibitors, roach control and control anything you want, this dude can do. So this is why that’s the new cool thing from J.T. Awesome here at PestWorld 2024. Love you, mean it.

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Sacramento CA

German and Asian cockroaches: The roads more traveled

Photo: ©Gene White

We use DNA sequences from sites like Ancestry.com to reveal our ancestry, discover relatives, and expose genetic variants that can affect our health. We can do the same with cockroaches. By examining the DNA sequences of the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), we can uncover genetic traits that enabled the species to become domesticated. 

Over many centuries, humans have vigorously bred and domesticated dogs, cats and other animals. The German cockroach has done so independently, without our help! Our recently published study revealed that the German cockroach and the Asian cockroach (B. asahinai) have common ancestral origins in Southeast Asia. The German cockroach diverged from the Asian cockroach about 2,100 years ago and abandoned its natural habitat in favor of domestication with humans. 

As is common for parasites that depend on their host — bed bugs, for example — the German cockroach very effectively hitchhiked its way with humans across the globe. Early in its journey, around 1,200 years ago, the German cockroach traveled westward with Asian traders and armies. Around 390 years ago, it hitchhiked eastward with European trading companies and colonial troops.

This species continues to be on the move today, taking advantage of the growth, integration and acceleration of global trade and modern housing conditions such as indoor plumbing, food storage and disposal, and air conditioning that support its omnivorous lifestyle.

What’s the implication for pest control?

By understanding what makes a species evolve a domestic and parasitic lifestyle, we can understand what genetic changes allowed it to do so. Therefore, by comparing the genetic sequences of the Asian and German cockroaches, we can begin to understand why the German cockroach can thrive indoors while the Asian cockroach lives strictly outdoors.

What is it about the German cockroach that allows it to adapt traits that challenge our pest control efforts? What genetic mechanisms help it to change its taste preferences to avoid eating our baits?

Understanding where it came from and what kind of selection pressures occurred in its native Southeast Asian habitat, we can begin to understand the mechanisms that enable the German cockroach to be the “Swiss army knife” of adaptability and resilience to human pressures.

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Dr. Schal is the Blanton J. Whitmire Distinguished Professor at the North Carolina State University Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Raleigh, N.C. He can be reached at coby@ncsu.edu.

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Sacramento CA

NEPMA reveals newest board and award winners

The NEPMA board includes, from left, Daniel Brady, Hope Bowman, Courtney Carace, Kevin Goldman, DJ Flynn, Michael Bourdeau and David Lock. PHOTO: NEPMA

The New England Pest Management Association (NEPMA) recently revealed its new executive board and board of directors. The individuals were elected during an annual dinner held at Cafe Escadrille in Burlington, Mass. The newly elected leadership team will take office in January 2025.

Executive board:

• President: Michael Bourdeau, ACE, Flynn Pest Control
• President-elect: Courtney Carace, ACE, Pest-End
• Past President: David Flynn, Burgess Pest Management
• Treasurer: Hope Bowman, BCE, Waltham Services
• Clerk: Kevin Goldman, Big Blue Bug

Outgoing NEPMA President David Flynn honored Adam Carace, ACE, of Pest-End with the President’s Award. PHOTO: NEPMA

Board of directors:

• Jim O’Neil, Rentokil Terminix
• Jonathan Boyar, ACE, Ecologic Entomology
• David Lock, Modern Pest Services
• Daniel Brady, Anchor Pest Services
• Will Weaver, MD Weaver
• Kevin Flynn, Catseye

NEPMA presents awards

During the dinner, outgoing NEPMA President David Flynn honored Pest-End’s Adam Carace, ACE, with the President’s Award, recognizing Carace’s outstanding volunteer contributions to NEPMA, particularly in advancing public policy and fostering membership growth.

NEPMA also awarded its highest honor, the Bartlett W. Eldridge award, to Galvin Murphy Jr., PCQI, Yankee Pest Control.

Galvin Murphy Jr. poses with his family during the ceremony where he was honored with the Bartlett W. Eldridge award. PHOTO: NEPMA

The Bartlett W. Eldridge award recognizes an individual who exemplifies a long-term commitment to the betterment of the pest control industry in New England. The accolade celebrates those who have demonstrated unwavering service to the industry, a deep commitment to community involvement and earned the respect of their peers.

”Galvin is a shining example of leadership, innovation, and service. His peers hold him in the highest regard for his vision, dedication, and ability to bring people together to achieve meaningful change,“ Flynn said.

A U.S. Marine and a second-generation pest management professional, Murphy Jr. has been a transformative figure in pest management over his nearly three decades in the industry. His commitment to innovation, education and best practices has elevated his organization and has been instrumental in fostering the growth and professionalism of colleagues across the industry.

Over the course of more than 20 years of active involvement in NEPMA, Galvin has served in numerous roles, including on committees, the executive board and as NEPMA president. His tenure as president was marked by a series of significant advancements, including modernizing the association’s website, expanding training opportunities and guiding the transition to a new management company after two decades. He championed inclusivity within NEPMA, ensuring smaller companies felt welcomed and advocating for vendor participation and recognition.

About the New England Pest Management Association

Founded in 1933, the New England Pest Management Association is an organization of pest management professionals from Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. Working in collaboration with the National Pest Management Association, the association strives to provide education and promote professionalism for the professional pest control industry.

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Sacramento CA