Raleigh, N.C. – Hundreds of pest management experts and technicians from around the state gathered at the North Raleigh Hilton in Raleigh today for the opening of the 62^nd Annual Pest Control Technicians’ School (PCT School).

This gathering is one of the nation’s largest pest control technician schools.

Dr. Philip Koehler, professor with the University of Florida Entomology and Nematology Department, provided the keynote address about changes in the pest management industry.

Dr. Koehler’s address kicked off the four-day conference which will feature sessions about updates and changes in pest management techniques and treatments.  Topics to be covered include pests such as fleas, bed bugs, rodents and wood-infesting beetles.

“The pest management industry is constantly changing and evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with the latest in technology and treatments,” said Kristin Dodd, board member of NCPMA.  “For more than 60 years, we’ve worked to ensure that our members receive excellent training at the PCT School, and this year is no different.  This year’s PCT School provides our members with the opportunity to learn about the latest trends in pest management from industry experts and leaders.”

In addition to the PCT School classes, the NCPMA offered training classes and renewal classes for its Wood-Destroying Insects Report (WDIR) Accreditation program.

The PCT School began today and continues through Thursday, Jan. 19.

About the NCPMA

Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina.  Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals.

To learn more about NCPMA or to locate a pest professional, please visit its Web site at:  www.ncpestmanagement.org.

###

Now 62 years later, we are still gathering for this annual event in Raleigh.  And it’s grown into one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the nation.

Today convened the 2012 Pest Control Technicians’ (PCT) School, which promises to be our largest PCT School to date.  Hundreds of pest management professionals from across the state gathered to hear the keynote address, “Changes in the Industry” from Dr. Phil Koehler of the University of Florida.

As pest management professionals, we know that our industry is constantly evolving. And the NCPMA knows that our responsibility is to make sure that our members receive the latest information about industry trends, new technology and new treatment methods.

Over the next four days, we’ll gather to learn about bed bugs, rodents, white grubs and everyday household pests.  Check the NCPMA Facebook and Twitter pages to learn more about what is happening at this year’s PCT School.

People may not realize that hotels, rental properties or even dorms can be infested with bed bugs.  Some simple actions can help decrease the chance of bringing bed bugs home after being away.

But bed bugs can be prevented with a few simple steps.

• Vacuum suitcases and bags after returning from a vacation or staying in a dorm room. Wash all clothing from the suitcases and bags in hot water.
• Before sleeping in a hotel or rental property bed, check the mattress, bed sheets, and headboard for tell-tale blood spots or signs of bed bugs.
• If signs of bed bugs are spotted, alert the hotel or rental property staff.  Each hotel or rental property should have a Bed Bug Management Plan in place to assist you as the problem is addressed.
• Consider bringing a large plastic trash bag in which to store your suitcase during hotel stays.
• Carry a small flashlight to assist you with quick visual inspections.
• Bed bugs are elusive creatures, so it is imperative to seek professional pest control to address an infestation. Trying to treat a problem without a professional can make the problem worse and more costly.

What led you to pursue a career in pest management?

I grew up on a farm and got a degree in agriculture with a minor in entomology.  I have been controlling pests all my life!

Why should pest management professionals be involved with the NCPMA?

There is greater power in belonging to the state association.  You become part of a much larger “voice” in directing political initiatives that effect the pest management industry.  You also become much more aware of the rules and regulations governing this industry and how to manage a business accordingly.     Last, but not least, the knowledge and friendships gained through membership of NCPMA has immeasurable value!!

In your opinion, what is the biggest pest problem that North Carolinians face today?

I don’t know if there is just one…..but the newest pest problem, also one of the oldest, is bed bugs.   This pest is beginning to rewrite how we do pest control!

What do you enjoy most about your job in the pest management industry?

The people!   All the owners, managers, technicians, manufacturer reps., university and government personnel that I have met and work with daily!!   Helping them solve problems and educate the industry and public!!!

Raleigh, N.C. – It’s a time of year for giving thanks…even for the pests in our lives.

As Thanksgiving nears, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) is educating North Carolinians about the benefits that five of the most common pests can bring to our state.

“People often think of insects as just pests, but they also do good things for our environment.  This Thanksgiving season, we want people to know that what they consider a nuisance can actually be beneficial too,” said Lee Smith, entomologist and board member of NCPMA.

The Top 5 Pests to Be Thankful For:

• Ladybugs: Ladybugs may seem like a nuisance this time of year but they also provide great benefits as they eat other plant-eating insects such as aphids.

• Spiders: While some species of spiders can pose health hazards, some species of spiders can eat insects such as mosquitoes and flies.

• Yellow Jackets: While often feared for its powerful sting, the yellow jacket can also help keep other insect populations at bay.  Yellow jackets consume insects that can damage plants and crops and also eat house fly larva.

• Bees: Bees are well known for the benefits that they bring to the environment such as making honey and pollinating plants.

• Termites: Most people think of termites as insects that merely destroy building structures, but termites do provide many benefits in nature.  Termites aid in the decomposition of wood debris in forests and landfills, which is especially helpful following a strong hurricane or tornado season.

About the NCPMA

Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina.  Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals.

To learn more about NCPMA, please visit its Web site at:  www.ncpestmanagement.org.

###

Very often, we don’t realize how thankful we are for the pests in our area.  But there are some pests that bring very big benefits that often go unnoticed.

The Top 5 Pests to Be Thankful For:

• Ladybugs:  Ladybugs may seem like a nuisance this time of year but they also provide great benefits as they eat other plant-eating insects such as aphids.

• Spiders:  While some species of spiders can pose health hazards, some species of spiders can eat insects such as mosquitoes and flies.

• Yellow Jackets:  While often feared for its powerful sting, the yellow jacket can also help keep other insect populations at bay.  Yellow jackets consume insects that can damage plants and crops and also eat house fly larva.

• Bees:  Bees are well known for the benefits that they bring to the environment such as making honey and pollinating plants.

• Termites:  Most people think of termites as insects that merely destroy building structures, but termites do provide many benefits in nature.  Termites aid in the decomposition of wood debris in forests and landfills, which is especially helpful following a strong hurricane or tornado season.

What led you to pursue a career in pest management?

After a 21-year career in retail management, I found this to be the perfect opportunity to serve customers and employees to the best of my ability.

Why should pest management professionals be involved with the NCPMA?

We need to continually learn more about our industry, our products and our opportunity for growth as pest management companies.  NCPMA helps us achieve these skills.

In your opinion, what is the biggest pest problem that North Carolinians face today?

The biggest pest problem is ANTS!

What do you enjoy most about your job in the pest management industry?

I love to serve.  This is a wonderful way to prove my worth to my customers, my employees and their families, as well as myself.

Raleigh, N.C. – Halloween is just around the corner, and there may be more than just jack-o-lanterns and goblins lurking behind those spooky decorations.

“Fall is the time of year when pests begin to look for warmer places to spend the winter, and that often means moving indoors into people’s homes,” said Lee Smith, entomologist and board member of the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA). “With the recent rains and hurricane activity in the state, homeowners should be watching for signs of pests or rodents in their homes and should contact a professional pest management company if they see any activity.”

The NCPMA is reminding North Carolinians to be on the lookout for pests and rodents that may be trying to find warmer temperatures indoors.  Pests that typically become a nuisance in homes this time of year include spiders, brown-marmorated stink bugs, lady bugs and, a relatively new pest to our area, the kudzu bug.

To properly and safely remove pests from a home, it is important to have a professional pest management company treat any signs of infestation and assist in developing a winterizing plan for the home to prevent the pests from entering the structure.

NCPMA offers the following tips for dealing with fall pests and winterizing a home:

• Winterizing the home. Check windows, doors and home exteriors for any holes that pests may enter through.  Caulk or cover any existing holes or openings.
• Properly store clothing. Don’t leave clothing lying on a floor where spiders may hide.  Hang it up or keep it in a plastic container.  Shake out any clothing or shoes that have been on a floor or in a hamper before wearing.
• Wear gloves or protective clothing when gardening and moving pieces of wood. Raking leaves and winterizing your garden is a popular activity this time of year, so make sure to wear gloves and long pants and sleeves to protect against spiders hiding in leaves and foliage.  Also, spiders like to hide in woodpiles and pieces of wood, so be careful when picking up pieces of wood.
• Check clothes for insects and spiders when returning indoors.
• Keep garages, attics and basements clean and clutter free.
• Consult a professional. Get your home inspected regularly by a qualified, licensed pest professional.  Your pest professional can recommend steps you can take to make sure your home stays pest-free.  Visit www.ncpestmanagement.org to find a pest professional in your area.

The NCPMA’s members receive regular training on how to prevent and treat all pests, including spiders and rodents.

About the NCPMA

Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina.  Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals.

To learn more about NCPMA, please visit its Web site at:  www.ncpestmanagement.org.

###

But for those in the pest management industry, it’s the time of year when pests start making their way indoors to escape the chilly temperatures outside.

Pest management companies receive many calls this time of year when people start noticing spiders and other pests like lady bugs, stink bugs and kudzu bugs in their homes.  And with the recent rains and hurricane activity in the state, rodents such as mice could also start showing up in homes.

How do you prevent these pests and rodents from getting into homes? Here are some tips.

• Winterizing the home. Check windows, doors and home exteriors for any holes that pests may enter through.  Caulk or cover any existing holes or openings.
• Properly store clothing. Don’t leave clothing lying on a floor where spiders may hide.  Hang it up or keep it in a plastic container.  Shake out any clothing or shoes that have been on a floor or in a hamper before wearing.
• Wear gloves or protective clothing when gardening and moving pieces of wood. Raking leaves and winterizing your garden is a popular activity this time of year, so make sure to wear gloves and long pants and sleeves to protect against spiders hiding in leaves and foliage.  Also, spiders like to hide in woodpiles and pieces of wood, so be careful when picking up pieces of wood.
• Check clothes for insects and spiders when returning indoors.
• Keep garages, attics and basements clean and clutter free.
• Consult a professional. Get your home inspected regularly by a qualified, licensed pest professional.  Your pest professional can recommend steps you can take to make sure your home stays pest-free.  Visit www.ncpestmanagement.org to find a pest professional in your area.

What led you to pursue a career in pest management?

I was recruiting for HomeTeam Pest Defense and found the company to have a great culture and a great niche in the market place.  I chose to come to work for them fulltime as the Regional Manager for the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Why should pest management professionals be involved with the NCPMA?

It is a good way to stay current on the issues that confront the industry as well as get to know what resources are available to them to assist with the growth of their business.  It addition, the association does an excellent job with providing on-going training on technical issues and other subjects of interest

In your opinion, what is the biggest pest problem that North Carolinians face today?

I would have to say it is Bed Bugs just from the exposure that it gets in the press and the many different places that the infestations are showing up.

What do you enjoy most about your job in the pest management industry?

I enjoy the challenges of leading individuals and the challenges of growing the business in spite of the current economy.