[SPONSORED CONTENT] The Gentrol family of products from Zoëcon, featuring the IGR (S)-hydroprene, have delivered responsible solutions with bottom-line results you can see since 1984. The Gentrol product line is approved for use in very sensitive locations such as food handling establishments and in homes around pets and small children thanks to a low toxicity profile.
With a translocating active ingredient that continues to move after application, you can trust all Gentrol products to control insects in hard-to-reach locations. Watch the video to see all the application possibilities for Gentrol products.
Steve Good speaks to the crowd at UPFDA 2025. PHOTO: PMP STAFF
The professional U.S. structural pest control market is mature, but that’s a good thing for this “Steady Eddie.” According to Steve Good, a 20-year Terminix senior exec turned consultant, it is not unheard of for pest management professionals (PMPs) in the U.S. collectively to generate $1 billion more in service revenue than they did the previous year.
Steady revenue growth — often 6 percent to 8 percent annually — is just one of many reasons more private equity (PE) investors and venture capitalists are “betting big on the bug business,” said Good, while delivering his State of the Industry keynote address to industry suppliers. About 60 members of the United Producers, Formulators and Distributors Association (UPFDA) feverishly took “Good notes” while attending the group’s spring conference, held April 22-23 at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach in Florida.
“More than 50 PE firms currently are circling the professional U.S. structural pest control market,” Good noted. “PE firms already hold U.S. pest control companies generating a combined more than $2.5 billion in service revenue annually. Additionally, they also have manufacturer holdings in this sector with $250 million-plus in combined annual revenue, and distribution holdings in this sector generating more than $400 million per year.”
Good said that consolidation over the past several decades has shrunk the number of players to about 17,000 service providers from more than 22,000 companies. Co-presenter Dave Braness, founder of DataWave Research, LLC, noted the Top 25 revenue-generating pest control companies in the U.S. over the past 20 years have increased their combined revenue from $2.8 billion to $11.5 billion: “Pest control’s ‘Big Four’ also continue to bet big on the bug business,” Braness added. “Rentokil/Terminix, Rollins, Ecolab and Anticimex together account for two-thirds of the country’s structural pest control professional service revenue — twice as much as the about 17,000 other remaining players combined.”
“Why are PE firms, venture capitalists and large stalwart service providers going ‘all in’ on pest control?” Good, president of Memphis, Tenn.-based Good Strategies, LLC. “Well, even as we sit at the precipices of a potential recession — facing record tariffs, hyperinflation and a contracting housing market — pest control is poised for 6-percent growth. The professional U.S. structural pest control market demonstrates continued growth under all types of pressure. Steady Eddie gets it done … seemingly no matter the challenges.”
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/steady-eddie-attracts-investors-with-dependable-growth-opportunities-in-the-pest-control-market/ Sacramento CA
A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology by researchers at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), led by urban entomologist Dr. Warren Booth, has identified a gene mutation in bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) associated with potential insecticide resistance.
Per Virginia Tech’s online article on the findings, the research was initiated as a molecular skill-building exercise for graduate student Camille Block. It involved analyzing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from 134 unique bed bug populations collected by North American pest control companies between 2008 and 2022. Screening these samples revealed the presence of a specific gene mutation in two distinct populations. Notably, this mutation is the same one known to create resistance to certain insecticides in certain populations of German cockroaches (Blatella germanica) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae). Further investigation confirmed that all individuals within these two bed bug populations possessed the mutation.
Dr. Booth explains that the resistance mechanism in German cockroaches is linked to a nervous system gene (Rdl) known to confer resistance to dieldrin, an insecticide with the same mode of action as fipronil. While dieldrin has been off the market since the 1990s, fipronil is currently used with great success in consumer flea and tick treatments for pets and in the professional pest control industry for several general household pests. It is important to note that it is not labeled for bed bugs, however.
Dr. Booth theorizes that the observed resistance may be linked to indirect exposure. Residue from fipronil-based pet treatments could be transferring to bedding, inadvertently exposing bed bugs and potentially selecting for resistant populations over time.
PMP magazine reached out to several manufacturers of fipronil-based products for comment on the study’s findings. They unanimously emphasized that a range of effective, labeled solutions are currently available for bed bugs, and because fipronil is not labeled for this pest, it’s essentially a non-issue. The manufacturers also strongly continue to advocate for the established best practice of rotating insecticide formulations and active ingredients to proactively mitigate the development of resistance across all target pests.
The Virginia Tech team’s next steps involve a broader global survey of bed bug populations and an examination of historical samples to understand the prevalence and evolution of this resistance mechanism. Dr. Booth noted that ongoing genomic sequencing efforts, including their recent sequencing of the entire bed bug genome, will be crucial in this research.
One of the most effective ways to control yellowjackets is to implement a proactive trapping program in late winter or early spring as a prevention measure. Because only fertilized females overwinter (all males die), catching them when they emerge from hibernation will prevent them from building nests. Several good commercial yellowjacket traps are available, and most come with a lure.
When trapping early in the season, it is best to use protein attractants. Switch to carbohydrate or fermented liquid attractants from mid-summer to early fall to catch foraging yellowjackets. These insects forage up to a quarter of a mile from their nest. Place multiple traps approximately 20 feet apart around the perimeter of the area you want to protect. Place them where yellowjackets are active — near known nests and nearby food sources like barbecue grills and trash cans.
Remove other possible attractants such as trash, rotting fruit on and under trees, soda cans, and other food to improve your catch rate. If a trap has a low catch, relocate it. Maintaining the traps by emptying and cleaning them every three to four weeks also is important.
LabelSDS.com, an innovator and leader in digital label and safety data sheet (SDS) books, introduces both the Lock N Load Download Button and the Label and SDS Revision Indicator.
Lock N Load gives you access to your company’s labels and SDS when in remote areas with no cell service or Wi-Fi by letting you download your company’s labels and SDS onto your device with one click of a button.
The Label & SDS Revision Flashing Indicator visually notifies you of any updated labels and/or SDS in your list. The Current Label and Current SDS Buttons will flash if there has been an update in the last 30 days.
Visit LabelSDS.com or call 904-609-0123 for more information.
About LabelSDS.com
LabelSDS.com is a web-based program with more than 6,800 product labels and safety data sheets (SDS) specific to the pest and turf industries. You can create your own company digital label and SDS “book” with the products your company uses. All your employees can access, download, print, email and text your company’s labels and SDS from their computer, tablet or smartphone. Best of all, your company’s labels and SDSs update automatically whenever there is a revision. LabelSDS.com is designed to be an easy and affordable way to access and manage your company’s labels and SDS.
Croix Newson, director of business intelligence for Massey Services, was recently named one of Orlando Business Journal’s 2025 “40 Under 40” honorees. The recognition highlights 40 rising professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant impacts within their companies, industries and the Central Florida community.
Croix Newson
“Croix has consistently delivered outstanding results and exemplified visionary leadership,” said Adam Scheinberg, vice president of information technology at Massey Services. “He brings a unique ability to solve complex technology challenges through innovative thinking, driving improvements that elevate our customer experience and support business growth.”
More on Newson
Joined Massey Services in 2016 as a database administrator.
In 2017, he was promoted to business intelligence manager.
In February 2022, he was promoted to his current role as director of business intelligence.
In his current role, he has:
He has expanded the team’s scope to include not only business intelligence but also reporting and software analysis, database engineering and software development.
He and his team also recently launched the online sales portal, which allows consumers to purchase pest prevention services directly from the website.
Massey Services promotes longtime employee
Massey also recently promoted Ross Smith to director of systems administration, systems architect.
“We are excited to see Ross step into this new leadership role,” said Scheinberg. “His innovative approach and commitment to enhancing our IT systems have been invaluable to our company’s success. We look forward to his continued contributions in this expanded capacity.”
More on Smith
He joined Massey Services in 2015.
He was promoted to systems architect in 2018.
He has played a pivotal role in enhancing Massey’s IT infrastructure, developing strategic solutions and overcoming challenges to optimize system performance and efficiency.
In his new role as director of systems administration, Smith oversees the daily operations of the systems administration team and all cloud resources.
Plunkett continues to grow in the Illinois market with the addition of Splat Pest Control. PHOTO: PLUNKETT’S PEST CONTROL
Plunkett’s Pest Control acquired Splat Pest Control, a locally owned and operated pest management company based in the northwest Chicago area. The acquisition of Splat Pest Control strengthens Plunkett’s commercial pest control presence in the Illinois market.
“We are thrilled to welcome Splat Pest Control to the Plunkett’s family. Joe Kozlowski built a business grounded in strong customer relationships and high-quality service, values we deeply share,” said Aly Silva Mulgrew, president of Plunkett’s Pest Control. “We’re excited to continue this standard of excellent service that Splat has provided for years to come.”
Splat Pest Control was founded in 1997 by Kozlowski and has earned a reputation for dependable service and a customer-first approach.
“After running this company with just one other employee, I was looking for a successor that could handle our client base with care, without losing the personal touch,” said Kozlowski. ”Plunkett’s is the perfect fit — not too big, not too small. I appreciate their commitment to both customers and employees.”
About Plunkett’s Pest Control
Founded in 1915 in Minneapolis, Minn., Plunkett’s Pest Control is a privately owned and operated corporation led by President Aly Silva-Mulgrew, and third-generation owner and board chair, Stacy O’Reilly.
With regional offices in Columbus, Ohio, and Farmington, N.M., Plunkett’s Pest Control and Varment Guard Wildlife Services deliver professional pest and wildlife control services to over 70,000 residential and commercial clients in 22 states.
For many years now, Syngenta has matched its previous contribution, helping Pi Chi Omega continue to award six scholarships annually to undergraduate and graduate students studying urban and structural pest management. This includes five $2,500 scholarships and one $3,500 scholarship.
“As past Chair of the Scholarship Committee, I’ve seen firsthand how much this support means to the students we fund,” said President Desiree Straubinger, BCE. “Because of Syngenta’s consistency and generosity, we’ve been able to maintain the strength of our scholarship program year after year — and that continuity makes a big difference for these students.”
Berry Cothern, district manager at Syngenta, shared similar sentiments and emphasized that Syngenta’s commitment to Pi Chi Omega is part of a long-term investment in the future of our industry.
“Many scholarship recipients go on to contribute meaningfully to the pest management field,” Berry said. “We’re proud to support a program that helps shape such passionate, knowledgeable professionals.”
Since its founding, Pi Chi Omega has awarded scholarships to 149 students, many of whom have gone on to become leaders, educators and innovators in the pest control profession.
About Pi Chi Omega
Pi Chi Omega is a national fraternity for pest management professionals. Initiated in 1950 by six students of Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Dr. John Osmun (Class of 1997) at Purdue University, the fraternity today is comprised of nearly 450 members representing 38 states and four foreign countries. These members are considered to be some of the most distinguished, dedicated and talented professionals in the industry.
Thermal-Acoustic-Pest Control (TAP) Pest Control Insulation is the only product registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help prevent and eliminate 21 potentially destructive and disease-transmitting pests from entering homes. It also holds Energy Star and UL classifications, ensuring thermal efficiency throughout the year.
Pest management professionals who offer TAP Pest Control Insulation report great success and have built client loyalty as trusted pest management providers in their area. In addition to the product, the Pest Control Insulation (PCI) team offers sales and installation programs and access to exclusive content, tools, equipment and maintenance support at no additional cost.
About Pest Control Insulation
Pest Control Insulation (PCI) is a Lula, Ga.-based distribution company focused on blended, customized insulation products, accessories and equipment for sale to the pest control industry. As the manufacturer of TAP insulation, PCI’s national customer base includes some of the largest pest control services companies in the country. In 2023, PCI generated approximately $24 million of revenue. It is now a brand of TopBuild Corp.
Phil Cooper, second-generation pest management professional and CEO of TRNZ4m, founded the AGP program to support service companies by elevating their employees’ soft and hard skills.
The program harnesses your field service managers’ current skills, but aims to help them improve in areas such as:
How to manage teams properly.
Calculate the cost of goods sold.
How to analyze downtime and labor hours.
“The most valuable tool I learned from AGP was the importance of intentionally scheduling quality interaction time in the field with technicians,” said Hozey. “By dedicating time to be present, I identified issues, provided real-time corrections and offered hands-on training, strengthening communication and team efficiency.”
Before enrolling, Hozey was primarily running routes, and had less experience with technology and data analysis.
“I lacked confidence in using technology,” he admitted. “AGP helped me develop those skills. Now I can analyze data, run reports and make informed decisions that improve our operations.”
According to the company, the main goals of the program are to:
Invest in your employees’ satisfaction.
Increase the rate of happier customers.
Accelerate your gross profits to help grow your business.
“Jim has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, observing his growth throughout this AGP program has only reinforced his potential,” said Ken Gipson, Hozey’s manager at Rose Pest Solutions. “His progression has elevated him to new heights, I am excited to witness his continued development as a great leader. I am honored to have him lead my team.“
Orkin Pest Control, in partnership with their creative agency DDB Chicago, is kicking off the pest season with a new national campaign, “Pests are smart, Orkin pros are smarter.” The campaign highlights how pests sneak into homes and businesses and how Orkin pros stop them.
From beer-loving cockroaches to fearless backyard mosquitoes, each spot of the campaign features handcrafted puppets from Wes Anderson’s team and taps into real entomological facts to show how cunning pests can be.
“With this campaign, we wanted to spotlight just how smart and well-trained our Orkin Pros really are,” said Cam Glover, vice president of marketing at Orkin USA. “So, we mixed real pest facts with a little puppet magic to bring each scenario to life. The result? A fun, memorable way to show how Orkin delivers serious know-how—and serious peace of mind — to every home and business we serve.”
With the onset of warmer weather, the campaign is timed to reinforce Orkin’s expertise during the most active pest season of the year.
“Working closely with Orkin’s team of entomologists allowed us to develop a campaign rooted in scientific accuracy, while bringing a distinct, creative, almost human-like edge to how we portray pests,” said Colin Selikow, CCO at DDB Chicago. “The result is a visually striking and unexpected take on pest control that balances credibility with imaginative storytelling.”
Gourmet Ant Bait Gel has been an effective tool for pest management professionals to use for ant and cockroach control for more than two decades. The product is sold in Canada as Green Way Ant & Roach Gel Bait.
Gourmet Ant Bait Gel’s exclusive formulation is attractive to sweet- and protein-feeding ants, as well as German cockroaches (Blatellagermanica). The gel is clear when applied, stays clear, and won’t get runny even at temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit for four hours. There is no documented resistance to the active ingredient, disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, the company says. The competitively priced product is packaged six syringes and six plungers to a box.
About Innovative Pest Control Products
Based in Gainesville, Fla., Innovative Pest Control Products was founded in 1999 by pest management professional and entomologist Alan Bernard to provide high-quality products for the professional pest control industry. Today, his daughter Sarah is the president of the company; she holds a master’s degree in entomology. Notable products include:
Gourmet Ant Bait
Green Way Liquid Ant Killing Bait Pre-filled RTU Bait Stations
AXN Growth Partners increases Arizona presence following seventh strategic partnership with Urban Desert Pest Control. PHOTO: AXN GROWTH PARTNERS
AXN Growth Partners, the parent company of ACTION Termite and Pest Control, recently formed a strategic partnership with Urban Desert Pest Control, a residential and commercial pest control company based in Phoenix, Ariz. The move marks AXN’s seventh partnership in the last 11 months and increases its presence in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
“With over two decades of pest control expertise, Urban Desert will be instrumental in helping us continue to grow in the Phoenix market,” said Brent Agee, CEO of AXN Growth Partners, “Brad and Trista Olsen, founders of Urban Desert, will continue in leadership roles with AXN and Urban Desert, respectively. We are excited for the future as we combine forces and share resources to deliver even greater service to our clients.”
The partnership is AXN’s first in 2025 and sixth in the Phoenix metro area. It was made to enhance its market presence and customer density throughout the broader Phoenix market.
In a joint statement, Urban Desert co-owners Brad and Trista Olsen noted that, “Our employees will benefit from better benefits, more growth opportunities and the backing of a company that truly values its people. We’re also thrilled about the chance to expand our reach and grow the Urban Desert brand in ways we never imagined possible.“
About AXN Growth Partners
AXN Growth Partners was formed in 2025 as the parent of ACTION Termite & Pest Control, along
with seven other brand partners, including Urban Desert. The AXN team is dedicated to driving success
by providing industry expertise and resources to its partners. The company is led by Brent Agee, CEO.
As the pest management industry continues to evolve toward more sustainable and humane control methods, one product is gaining rapid traction for its novel approach. SenesTech’s trademarked Evolve Rat Birth Control is a soft bait designed specifically to reduce rat populations by targeting fertility — not through toxins, but by effectively curbing reproduction.
Designated as a minimum-risk pesticide by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under FIFRA 25(b), Evolve represents a new frontier in integrated pest management (IPM). Formulated for ease of deployment and broad environmental compatibility, Evolve is highly palatable, designed to attract rats even in the presence of alternative food sources, and can be strategically placed in a wide range of urban, agricultural, and commercial environments.
“Adding fertility control to IPM programs can increase long-term effectiveness by up to 90 percent, especially in chronic or large-scale infestations,” says Joel Fruendt, president and CEO of SenesTech. “Evolve enables pest professionals to go beyond traditional kill-based methods by addressing the root cause of infestations: uncontrolled reproduction.”
Evolve is currently available in consumer sized 1.5- and 3-pound soft bait pouches, as well as professional-use 6- and 12-pouch pails. It is already in use in major U.S. cities — including Baltimore, Md.; San Francisco, Calif.; New York, N.Y; and Chicago, Ill. — where it’s being deployed by municipal agencies and business districts seeking long-term, humane rat population control.
Evolve does not pose secondary risks to non-target animals, making it particularly appealing in areas with pets, wildlife or sensitive ecosystems. It is labeled for use near schools, food-handling facilities, green infrastructure projects and public spaces, where safety and sustainability are priorities.
For pest management professionals, Evolve provides a differentiated service offering, a way to stand out by promoting science-backed, future-forward solutions that deliver measurable, lasting results.
The Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA), which serves as the consumer marketing and public outreach arm of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), shared its 2024 annual report. The 2024 report showcases how PPMA’s collective efforts from media outreach, digital advertising, video content creation and more work to deliver value for the industry.
“We’re delivering powerful, far-reaching campaigns that are making a real difference in how people perceive pest control,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, BCE, executive director of PPMA. “And with every passing year, these programs and their impact only grow stronger. Backed by data-driven insights from polls, surveys and AI-powered analysis, we ensure our messaging not only reaches audiences but truly resonates and moves the needle for the industry.”
The redesign of Mainframe, which provides subscribing pest control companies with a user-friendly interface and customizable resources, industry insights and trending content. The upgrade aimed to make it easier for businesses to leverage tools to grow, adapt and succeed.
The PPMA’s paid social media strategy leveraged platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Pinterest to capture 68.5 million impressions.
Media outreach efforts used targeted messaging to allow content to appear in national publications to educate consumers on the necessity of professional pest control.
“Each new campaign, media placement, and advertisement strengthens our industry’s reputation – ensuring that professional pest control is recognized, valued and respected,” said Bobby Jenkins, a Pest Management Professional (PMP) columnist and owner of ABC Home & Commercial Services in Austin, Texas. “Together with our investors, suppliers and dedicated pest management professionals, we’re driving business growth and securing a thriving future for all pest control companies for generations to come.”
Dr. Fredericks also spoke on the goal of the organization’s year-round programming to continue to raise the bar in driving long-term growth for the pest control industry.
“Our success in 2024 has set the stage for an even more exciting 2025,” Dr. Fredericks added. “We’re committed to advancing the industry and reinforcing the critical importance of pest management services for homes, businesses and communities alike.”
SpringGreen offers pest management professionals (PMPs) a unique opportunity to expand their operations, become a responsible certified applicator, or sell their business to a trusted, growing brand in the lawn, pest, and tree care industry.
As a leading provider of integrated services, SpringGreen allows PMPs to diversify by adding complementary services like lawn care and tree maintenance, which can increase customer retention and create new profitable recurring revenue streams. With SpringGreen, you gain access to a proven business model, industry-leading technology, national buying power and extensive operations, sales, and marketing support.
If you’re considering selling, SpringGreen offers competitive buyout options, ensuring your legacy continues while providing you with the freedom to explore new opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to expand or transition out of the business, SpringGreen is positioned to be an ideal partner for long-term success.
About Spring Green
Founded in 1977, SpringGreen offers lawn, tree and pest services to more than 7,500 communities nationwide.
ConidioTec, makers of Aprehend, offers free, live, practical bed bug training for pest management professionals (PMPs). Held via Zoom and at your convenience, Aprehend co-founder and Chief Tech Officer Dr. Nina Jenkins will show you and your team how to boost efficacy and efficiency in the field. Choose from topics such as customer prep, assessment-based pest management, protocols for multi-unit housing and hospitality, addressing challenging high-traffic areas, strategic barrier placement, complimentary products, customer education and more. It’s an excellent opportunity to hone your bed bug protocol and maximize treatment time in the field.
In addition, the Aprehend Training Video Series on The Aprehend Channel on YouTube can be watched on demand. The series of seven short videos discusses information essential to successful treatment for bed bug prevention and elimination. Starting with bed bug biology in segment one and ending with Aprehend storage and handling, viewers will finish the series with understanding and confidence for success with Aprehend. The entire series is 36 minutes in duration. Also, find tips and tricks that make your bed bug work faster and easier.
About Aprehend
Aprehend is manufactured by ConidioTec, a privately held company based in Centre Hall, Pa. Its initial product, Aprehend, was launched in 2017 based on technology licensed from Pennsylvania State University. Aprehend is now sold throughout the U.S. and Canada and is increasingly relied upon for challenging infestations in residences, multi-unit housing, rental properties, long-term care facilities and commercial properties.
The 2025 conference attracted over 450 attendees representing more than 50 countries, making it the most diverse gathering in the event’s history. The two-day event, presented in collaboration with Ecovar, a leading industry product supplier based in Dubai, focused on addressing the unique pest management challenges and opportunities across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and India.
Dominique Stumpf, CAE, CEO of NPMA, stands with Hani Shehadeh, CEO of Ecovar. PHOTO COURTESY OF NPMA
“PestWorld East 2025 reminded us why we do what we do. It wasn’t just a conference — it was a convergence of purpose,” said Hani Shehadeh, CEO, Ecovar. “Seeing the region’s brightest minds unite around innovation, public health and progress was deeply energizing. At Ecovar, we are not here to observe industry change — we’re here to proudly drive it alongside NPMA and our partners.”
Educational excellence
Attendees had the opportunity to learn from leading experts about the latest advances in pest biology and elimination strategies.
A packed audience listening to one of the educational presentations. PHOTO COURTESY OF NPMA
The comprehensive educational program covered topics, including:
New service techniques to protect public health.
The importance of effective rodent control programs.
Strategies for dealing with challenges in commercial accounts.
Sustainable pest management approaches.
Innovation showcase
The show floor featured several stands from companies based in the Middle and Far East, but also had a good representation of companies from Europe. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NPMA
In addition to the educational program, attendees also had a chance to hear from vendors and explore the newest technologies available from the 40 exhibitors within the exhibition. Vendors from around the world showcased innovative products, services and solutions designed to enhance pest management efficacy and sustainability.
The exhibition provided opportunities for attendees to connect directly with industry suppliers, test new equipment and discover new approaches to persistent pest challenges.
Global Pest Management Coalition meeting
The Global Pest Management Coalition (GPMC) also hosted its meeting in conjunction with PestWorld East, furthering international collaboration on key industry initiatives. As part of their agenda, the group discussed the sustainability surveys that have been distributed to pest professionals in the United States, Italy, Portugal, Sweden and Spain.
Following the closure of these translated surveys, the GPMC will compile results to help determine next steps for the Sustainability Workgroup.
While many stinging insects generally are considered beneficial, public concern about honey bees and other beneficial species is increasing. As such, you must be extra mindful of any necessary treatments around flowering, fruit and vegetable plants pollinated by these insects. Some species, such as carpenter bees, rarely are aggressive and may not require treatment if they’re only spotted occasionally. Once they start damaging the structure, however, they’ve got to go.
Take a moment to educate customers on insect behavior. For example, bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) are less likely to bother people at a picnic than common yellowjackets (Vespula alascensis), but both become highly aggressive near their nests. Reducing foragers around a picnic table is far less effective than directly treating the nest, which helps reduce extra callbacks.
Your knowledge and expertise are essential — not just for your safety but also for ensuring successful treatments and satisfied customers.
California and Texas lead the rankings, with Los Angeles taking the top spot, followed by Dallas. New York City, Atlanta and Houston round out the Top 5.
“As spring temperatures rise, we’re already seeing mosquito activity ramp up across the country,” said Dr. Sydney Crawley, principal vector scientist at Terminix. “Mosquitoes aren’t just a backyard nuisance — they can also carry diseases that pose real public health risks. Our annual rankings help raise awareness and encourage people to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families and their communities.”
Terminix’s Top 10 most mosquito-infested cities based on 2024 data:
Los Angeles, Calif.
Dallas, Texas
New York, N.Y.
Atlanta, Ga.
Houston, Texas
Philadelphia, Pa.
Washington, D.C.
Orlando, Fla.
Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla.
San Francisco, Calif.
This year’s report indicates there has been some shifting among the Top 10 this year.
Terminix’s Top 10 most mosquito-infested cities based on 2023 data:
Los Angeles, Calif.
New York, N.Y.
Dallas, Texas
Atlanta, Ga.
Philadelphia, Pa.
Washington, D.C.
Houston, Texas
Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla.
Orlando, Fla.
San Francisco, Calif.
About Rentokil Terminix
In October 2022, Rentokil Initial acquired Memphis, Tenn.-based Terminix to create the entity Rentokil Terminix. The $6.7 billion deal was funded by $1.3 billion in cash and by more than 640 million Rentokil shares. The U.S. company’s shareholders own approximately 26 percent, and the combined company currently employs about 56,000 people across 87 countries.
About Rentokil Initial plc
Operating across 89 countries, Rentokil Initial is a British company primarily focusing on commercial pest control and hygiene solutions. With a workforce of 68,500 professionals, its core mission is “to protect people, enhance lives, and preserve our planet.”
Pest control might not be your first thought when you see Earth Day on the calendar, but the reality is that all of us in pest control are working directly to impact our customers’ environments for the better — and in doing so, we have the opportunity to embrace choices that impact the broader environment for the better, too.
Modern advancements in the materials and tools used for pest control — as well as shifts in customer demand toward more sustainable solutions — make now the perfect time to explore how your business can start making changes to minimize environmental impact while meeting customer expectations. So, what can you do to help make tomorrow a little greener than today?
Pay attention to chemical usage
Applying pest control chemicals goes hand in hand with compliance, as failing to stay compliant can lead to fines for your business. But complying with state and federal regulations isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about meeting environmental standards intended to better protect ecosystems and public health. Using specialty software allows pest control businesses to automatically track chemical usage, ensuring your business is not only compliant but has the data to prove it. Tracking software also allows you to adjust quickly when regulations shift, keeping you ahead of the curve.
When your business tracks chemical application, more responsible application follows automatically as technicians are better equipped to avoid overspraying or irresponsible chemical use. This allows chemicals to perform their intended functions while keeping runoff to a minimum, shrinking the impact of each job and the costs to run your business.
Beyond tracking, you can also consider more eco-friendly alternatives to begin with. While it may not be realistic to do so in every use case, making green alternatives available when possible showcases your commitment to the environment, as well as your dedication to meeting the needs of modern customers.
Part ways with clutter
For pest control operators (PCOs) still doing business on pen and paper, efficiency gains should be more than enough reason to start digitizing; another reason is reducing waste. Going paperless is one of the most effective ways to reduce waste in any business. For PCOs, digitizing forms, invoices, service agreements and customer communications not only drastically reduces how much paper is used but also enables faster sales in the field.
By taking advantage of mobile apps and cloud-based data, your office staff and technicians can access vastly more data without printing a single sheet. Better yet, you stand to deliver a more seamless experience for your customers with a portal where they can self-service to book appointments, access their service history, receive updates and make payments. It’s a win for your team — and the environment.
Take your fleet farther
Any industry in the field is at the mercy of fuel costs, and pest control is no exception. Ensuring you’re running tight routes can make a big difference, and that boils down to route optimization. Manual route planning isn’t just time-consuming; it’s ineffective. Using intelligent tools tailored specifically for the pest industry to ensure the most efficient routes can enable significant savings on fuel, and that’s on top of lowering fleet maintenance costs and giving your technicians more time back in the day to spend servicing customers.
Stay ahead of the curve with IPM
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an increasingly popular approach to pest control that’s also eco-friendly by its very nature. Emphasizing prevention and monitoring along with targeted treatment to control pests, IPM provides the added benefit of minimizing harm to non-target species and the surrounding ecosystem.
Using software that supports IPM can help companies track pest activity, record environmental conditions, and implement data-driven treatment plans to achieve the best outcome for the business, the customer and the environment. Instead of reaching for chemical solutions by default, IPM encourages technicians to consider alternative methods first — like sealing entry points, removing food sources or applying green-certified products.
The future of pest is green
With growing concern from customers and constantly evolving regulations from governing bodies, embracing environmentally friendly pest control strategies is one of the best ways PCOs can excel today while keeping the future in mind. Embracing future-focused software, sustainable practices and smarter service strategies is a golden opportunity to go green and lead by example this Earth Day.
To learn more about how you can keep your business agile and embrace eco-friendly opportunities with the right software, visit pestpac.com today.
Mud daubers are large, easily recognizable wasps known for their intimidating appearance and unsightly nests. Despite their menacing look, these wasps generally are harmless to people and pets. Stinging is rare, only occurring when the insect is directly threatened, such as trying to swat it.
These wasps are considered beneficial insects, as they help control spider populations, including dangerous species like black widows (Latrodectus mactans). Their name comes from their unique nesting behavior: Mud daubers collect mud, sand, dirt or moist earth to build their nests. These nests can vary in shape, often appearing as long, tubular structures or more clumped together with individual cells.
Mud daubers typically attach their nests to the exteriors of buildings, such as under eaves, on decks or inside attics. They also may build under rocks or in garages or other sheltered areas. Once constructed, the nests are stocked with paralyzed spiders, which provide food for the wasp larvae.
Mud daubers can be in several genera, primarily in the order Sphecidae. They feature a distinctive, long, thin waist (the petiole) between the thorax and abdomen. Color varies, with some displaying an iridescent sheen. Unlike other social wasps, mud daubers are solitary creatures — each nest is tended by a single wasp.
If you’d like to remove a mud dauber nest, fear not! Because mud daubers do not defend their nest like their more aggressive cousins, use a soft putty knife to scrape it away gently, then apply a long-lasting repellent insecticide to the area.
The Automatic Trap Co. (ATC) has introduced new technology to the pest control industry: A non-toxic, self-resetting humane-kill trap designed exclusively for the California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), a major pest problem in California, Oregon, Washington state and Nevada that does severe property damage. Designed by in-house pest control experts, the TerraTrap California Ground Squirrel Kit is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping this month.
The trap looks like a rock, but inside is a Goodnature A18 self-resetting trap that quickly kills the squirrel. Scavengers then carry away the dead squirrel. An outline of how it works is online at AutomaticTrap.com/pages/how-the-terratrap-works.
Product benefits
Ground squirrels are much more likely to approach the trap that mimics the natural environment they are used to. The design encourages tunneling into the trap, while the appearance of a rock does not alarm the notoriously timid pests.
The system kills instantly and humanely, and then the dead squirrel is released and easily scavenged by birds or other animals.
Once the scavengers in the area are acclimatized to checking the trap, it can produce a kill each day as the scavengers will quickly clear out the trap for you, reducing the labor significantly.
The system uses a carbon dioxide-powered, self-resetting trap that kills up to 18 times before needing an inexpensive new cartridge. The lure can be anything that your squirrels accept; in-shell peanuts work well.
About the Automatic Trap Co. (ATC)
Founded in 2016, the Automatic Trap Company is a provider of humane and environmentally conscious pest control solutions, with headquarters in Sonoma, Calif. ATC is also the U.S. distributor for the Goodnature trapping technology from New Zealand, offering a range of self-resetting traps powered by carbon dioxide that ensure a quick and humane kill of pestiferous rats, mice and squirrels.
The day before the Women in Pest Control (WIPC) conference officially began, a select group of attendees was treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Rockwell Labs in nearby North Kansas City, Mo. Founder and CEO Dr. Cisse Spragins, a Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer (Class of 2018), warmly welcomed attendees and provided an in-depth look at the company’s research, development and manufacturing processes.
PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
Going on tour: Dr. Spragins, in gold sweater, and Rockwell Labs’ VP of marketing and customer service, David Murphy, in gray sweater, pose with the group at the headquarters entrance.
PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
A peek at processing: Dr. Spragins, seen here explaining Rockwell Labs’ manufacturing process, was also a vendor, sponsor and technical speaker for the WIPC conference.
PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
Murphy’s laws: David Murphy talks to attendees about the business and technical service support Rockwell Labs is able to give to its customers.
PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
Looking ahead: Lucas Blevins, Rockwell Labs’ chemical and regulatory manager, shares details about new research going on at the facilities.
PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
Ready for shipment: Attendees experienced how a batch of Rockwell Labs’ InTice product goes from raw material to being packaged and ready for delivery.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/rockwell-hosts-tour-highlighting-its-research-development-and-manufacturing-processes/ Sacramento CA
New from Envu, Barricor Essential Mosquito Control is designed for pest management professionals who have a demand for eco-friendly solutions from customers. It is registered in the 25(b) category, considered minimum risk through the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The essential oil-based insecticide delivers a powerful 24-hour mortality rate for Aedes mosquitoes — and 48 hours for Culex when used as directed — yet poses no risk for bees, butterflies, people and pets.
Barricor Essential Mosquito Control’s patent-pending formulation is water-based. The formulation is stable and does not separate over 24 hours, meaning operators don’t need to remix. With no signal word or personal protective equipment (PPE) required (unless required by applicable law), the solution enhances applicator safety and is labeled for use in a wide range of environments, including residential and commercial outdoor spaces.
About Envu
Founded in 2022 and based in Cary, N.C., Envu leverages a 50-year legacy of environmental science to focus exclusively on fostering healthy environments globally. Its specialized service areas encompass professional pest management, forestry, ornamentals, golf, industrial vegetation management, lawn and landscape, mosquito management, and range and pasture. Across all these sectors, Envu collaborates closely with customers to cultivate solutions that allow both the natural world and human society to flourish in harmony.
Termites get their food from wood and their moisture from soil, which is why wood that’s in contact with soil is ideal for termite development. When that’s not the case, termites may build tubes on walls or inside wall voids to bridge foundation walls or masonry that separate wood from soil.
Source: Purdue University, Department of Entomology
