TPCA Pest Playbook - Blog

LSU Researchers Launch Gulf South VECTOR Needs Assessment for Pest Management Professionals

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:06:51 GMT

The Gulf Coast region of the United States provides a subtropical climate that is suitable for a myriad of arthropod disease vectors (mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, etc.) which is a significant factor in the transmission of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Lyme disease, and West Nile fever. Pest management professionals (PMPs) and mosquito control districts are the front line of defense against disease vectoring pests. However, when delivering disease vector management services, both PMPs and mosquito control districts encounter operational barriers. While similar in their mission to manage diseasevector populations, exact strategies utilized will differ between the two: private companies primarily operate reactively, treating properties after customer requests, and focusing on the elimination of current adult and larval presence. Districts, on the other hand, while engaging in similar reactive measures, also utilize preventive strategies such as disease and population surveillance, source reduction and habitat modification, biological control, and community outreach. Private services can operate within a wide geographic area, while district services are limited to within their jurisdiction, usually a single county or parish. As funding ranges dramatically between districts, from volunteer-ran to operating on a multi-million-dollar budget, the availability and efficacy of district vector control vary greatly. In some areas, private companies may be the only provider of vector control.

In 2023, the Mosquito BEACONS group assessed the capacities of mosquito surveillance and control across the southeastern U.S. Funding, personnel, and were among the highest expressed needs from vector control districts of all budget levels. Less than half of agencies in survey states had a mosquito identification expert on staff. Additionally, despite the high level of global trade at ports along the Gulf Coast that could introduce invasive vectors, only 1 of 26 programs that had a port of entry within their jurisdiction able to perform surveillance there. Other contributing factors, including land use change, high volumes of international trade and travel (increasing likelihood of invasive disease vectors or pathogens being introduced), and poor waste management practices such as illegal tire dumping, all create ideal conditions for the persistent presence of arthropod disease vectors in the Gulf Coast region. Environmental pollution, including damaged septic systems (Louisiana and Mississippi are the only states that utilize septic ditches) and wastewater runoff, further creates mosquito breeding habitats. Climate variability has also expanded the geographic range and seasonal activity of many vectors and the transmission of their associated diseases, further complicating management efforts.

Given the abovementioned barriers that mosquito control districts face in delivering effective vector management programming, pest management companies must also be facing similar challenges. However, given the differences in operations, equipment, and programming, it is likely that PMPs may experience different operational challenges than a vector management district.

To address this knowledge gap, LSU researchers are conducting a regional needs assessment focused on pest management decision-makers, including company managers, owners, and technical directors. The assessment is conducted with a survey which is administered both in person and virtually, with responses organized and analyzed to identify common themes, operational barriers, and priority training needs. Researchers aim to complete at least 30 interviews with companies in Louisiana and many more across the Gulf South region, providing one of the first comprehensive look at vector-management capacity within the private pest management sector in the region. The project is part of the Gulf South VECTOR initiative and is led by Chance Hudnall, M.S. student, under the direction of Dr. Aaron Ashbrook, from the LSU Department of Entomology in collaboration with Dr. Claudia Riegel at the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite & Rodent Control Board. The survey focuses on identifying knowledge gaps, operational barriers to delivering disease vector management services, and training needs within private pest management companies involved in mosquito and other vector-control services throughout Louisiana and the broader Gulf South. Understanding how these challenges translate to the pest management industry is essential for developing effective training programs and improving regional preparedness for vector-borne disease risks.

Figure 1. Pest management professional needs assessments conducted by state so far. The findings will establish a baseline understanding of industry knowledge, practices, and preparedness related to vector control. This will in turn drive targeted extension programming that addresses pest management professional challenge in delivering disease vector services.

From Research to Extension Programming

In addition to documenting the pest management industry’s needs for delivering disease vector management services, the project will support the development of targeted extension programming designed specifically for pest management professionals. Results from the needs assessment will directly guide the design and prioritization of these training and program-development efforts. Potential training and program-development areas include:

Designing scalable larval surveillance and larviciding programs that can be adapted to different staffing levels, budgets, and equipment availability.
Developing mosquito identification training programs using multiple instructional formats, including workshops and digital learning tools.
Evaluating how training influences industry adoption of new vector-control technologies and practices.
Calibration of mosquito application equipment.

These extension efforts are intended to support pest management companies in implementing more effective and sustainable vector-control programs.

Collaboration Through the Gulf South VECTOR Initiative

This work is being conducted through the Gulf South VECTOR project, a regional effort focused on strengthening vector-management capacity through research, training, and collaboration among universities, mosquito-control programs, and pest management professionals. By working directly with industry partners, Chance Hudnall and the Gulf South Vector team hope to ensure that extension programming reflects the real-world needs of pest management professionals and supports practical, scalable solutions for vector control across the region.

How Can Pest Management Professionals Participate?

Pest management professionals in Louisiana and the Gulf South are invited to participate in the VECTOR needs assessment by participating in a 30-minute interview.

Participation will help researchers:

Identify industry training priorities
Improve extension programming for vector management
Strengthen collaboration between researchers and pest management professionals
Support regional preparedness for vector-borne disease risks

Interested participants can sign up for the Gulf South VECTOR needs assessment by scanning the QR or contacting the LSU research team.

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/w2Gd3De0LK

Name	Phone Number(s)	Email
Chance Hudnall	503-931-1293	chudnall@agcenter.lsu.edu
Dr. Aaron Ashbrook	225-578-1634; 225-578-2257	aashbrook@agcenter.lsu.edu

AI That Actually Works To Help Your Pest Control Operations Work Smarter

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:45:24 GMT

Jeremy Utley from Stanford highlights a common frustration with AI: when you give it a quick, vague prompt, the response often sounds like AI. The wording can feel generic or robotic because the system doesn’t know enough about your business. His solution is context engineering—feeding AI the background details it needs so it can act more like a trained employee rather than a chatbot.

For a pest control company, context can include your brand voice, pricing structure, service checklists, and even typical customer questions. Instead of just saying “write a service-estimate email,” you might add details like your preferred greeting, the usual treatment plan for termites, and your standard follow-up timeline. The more relevant information you share, the more natural and accurate the AI’s reply becomes.

Context engineering also cuts down on rework. When the AI knows your territory’s regulations, technician schedules, and seasonal pest patterns, it can create quotes or inspection notes that are ready to send, not just a starting draft. This saves time for office staff and reduces the back-and-forth editing that makes AI feel like an untrained intern.

One powerful technique is reverse prompting. Instead of you trying to guess every piece of information upfront, you ask the AI to start by asking you questions. For example, you could say, “Before writing a proposal, ask me what details you need.” The AI might then ask about the type of pest, square footage, or customer preferences. This back-and-forth builds a stronger foundation and ensures the final output matches your exact needs.

Another strategy is assigning the AI a perspective or role. For instance, you might tell it, “You are our operations manager creating a weekly technician schedule,” or “You are our customer service lead writing a follow-up email to a homeowner with a recurring ant issue.” Giving the AI a clear identity helps it focus its language and recommendations, making the results feel more like something your own staff would write.

You can also provide examples to guide its tone—such as past service reports, sample invoices, or marketing emails. Pairing these samples with a defined role tells the AI not just what to write but how to write it. This combination of reverse prompting and perspective keeps outputs on-brand and professional, eliminating that “sounds like AI” problem.

With these practices, AI becomes a true productivity booster for pest control companies. Reports, proposals, follow-up emails, and even technician routing plans can be generated faster and with fewer mistakes. By giving AI the right context—and letting it clarify details before it starts—you move beyond generic results and gain a virtual team member that speaks your company’s language.

ebay & Pest Control Companies? What's The Connection?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:18:43 GMT

Connecting eBay Consumer Habits to Pest Control Best Practices in Tennessee

It All Started With A Broken Laser Pointer
eBay began in 1995 as AuctionWeb, by Pierre Omidyar from his San Jose living room. The first item sold? A broken laser pointer—purchased by someone who collected broken ones—a quirky twist that helped fuel the platform’s early momentum. Another twist, originally named Echo Bay, but was shortened to eBay after the domain echobay.com was not available. eBay went public in September 1998, launching at $18 and closing day one at $53.50—making Omidyar and his co-founder billionaires overnight.

eBay’s first sale was a broken laser pointer—proof that even oddball items can find a market. Pest control companies could play with this idea through “quirky promotions” that grab attention. For example, have the general public submit their weirdest “pest finding” stories and photos (like a snake in a dishwasher) and offer a discounted inspection for the most interesting and feature those stories in a lighthearted blog or newsletter. Or run a “first-time customer auction” on social media—where one lucky winner gets their first treatment for free, while others receive smaller discounts. These promotions not only create buzz but also humanize the company.

eBay's Resilient Consumer Base and What Pest Control Can Learn
eBay has long thrived by catering to bargain hunters, collectors, and convenience-seeking shoppers. Many users gravitate toward its platform because they can access rare items, tap into competitive pricing, or enjoy the convenience of auction-style or fixed-price listings.

Pest control companies in Tennessee could mirror this with seasonal promotions and tiered service packages. For example, during termite-swarm season in spring, offer a “Termite Check-Up Special” at a discounted introductory price. Or create a bundled package such as “Mosquito + Tick Summer Protection” for families who spend time outdoors. Just as eBay shoppers like the thrill of finding a deal, Tennessee homeowners will respond to promotions that make them feel like they’re getting extra value.

Trust Through Transparency and Reputation Systems
eBay’s cornerstone has always been its feedback and seller-rating system, establishing trust in peer-to-peer transactions far removed from brick-and-mortar norms

Pest control services can take a page from this book by showcasing verified reviews, transparent treatment plans, and before-and-after documentation. These trust-building elements reassure homeowners, especially when dealing with sensitive issues like infestations. Tennessee businesses could highlight testimonials—maybe specific examples like “resolved my termite issue within two visits”—to mirror the credibility that eBay’s feedback system provides.

Turning Data Into Demand: eBay’s “Category Signals” for Tennessee Pest Control
eBay didn’t just add niche categories—it tracks real-time buyer data to spotlight what’s trending and then drives marketing around those spikes, such as sudden surges in collectible sneakers or vintage cameras. Pest control companies in Tennessee can borrow this playbook by using hyper-local data to predict and promote services before pests peak.

Instead of only reacting to the usual summer ant or fall rodent calls, imagine pulling weather patterns, local extension-office reports, and even neighborhood social-media chatter into a simple dashboard. If an unusually wet April signals a mosquito explosion in Memphis, you could launch a “Mosquito Surge Alert” campaign in May with limited-time discounts or neighborhood group pricing—weeks before competitors start advertising.

Likewise, when construction booms in suburban Nashville disturb soil and send termites searching for new homes, a company could roll out a “New Build Termite Shield” package timed to building permits and real-estate listings. This data-driven, pre-emptive outreach is the real eBay-style niche specialization: not just knowing what pests are seasonal, but marketing to the micro-moment when homeowners are about to feel the pain.

By blending customer insight with timely offers—just as eBay pivots when a category trend spikes—Tennessee pest control firms can become the obvious choice before a problem is visible, locking in customers and commanding premium pricing.

Fast forward to 2025

After stronger-than-expected Q2 earnings, eBay's stock jumped as much as 19% and became the best performer in the S&P 500. Investor optimism today stems from strategic clarity, growth in focus categories, and consistent execution—all lessons that apply to local businesses. For a Tennessee pest control company, focusing on high-demand segments (like termite and rodent services), demonstrating steady performance, and communicating forecasts—perhaps via local ad campaigns or community partnerships—can help build trust, increase referrals, and sustain long-term growth.

Struggling To Hire Pest Techs? You're Not Alone!

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 22:42:19 GMT

Finding and keeping quality technicians has become one of the biggest operational challenges for pest control companies across Tennessee. Whether you're operating in the fast-paced markets of Nashville and Memphis or covering wide service areas in rural regions, staffing issues are affecting efficiency, customer service, and growth. The labor shortage isn't unique to pest control, but the specialized skills, certifications, and customer-facing nature of the job make technician roles particularly hard to fill—and even harder to retain.

In urban markets, competition for talent is fierce. Technicians in cities often have higher expectations for wages and benefits, especially with large national companies offering signing bonuses, take-home vehicles, and flexible schedules. Meanwhile, rural operators face an entirely different challenge: fewer candidates in the labor pool and longer commute distances. But rural companies may have the advantage of community relationships and lower turnover if they invest in the right people.

One solution is offering a clear training path and supporting certification efforts. Businesses that invest in new hires—through on-the-job training, prep courses for applicator licenses, and paid CEUs—are more likely to see loyalty and stronger performance. Partnering with vocational schools or community colleges for job placements or internships can also help develop a consistent pipeline of future technicians.

Opportunities for certification support, CEUs, and hands-on education are also available through industry events like TPCA's Summer Conference (July23-25). It's a chance for both owners and technicians to stay current on regulations, sharpen their skills, and connect with others in the field who are facing the same workforce challenges.

Pay is still king, but benefits like predictable hours, a strong safety culture, and growth opportunities within the company can be equally persuasive. Consider creating advancement tracks that reward experienced techs with lead roles or specialization in high-value services like termite or commercial accounts. Regular team meetings and performance incentives can also strengthen engagement and reduce the risk of burnout.

Tennessee pest control companies are also getting creative with recruitment, from offering referral bonuses to leveraging local social media groups and community boards. And once you've found the right people, retaining them may depend more on how they're treated than how much they're paid. Transparent communication, recognition for good work, and an organized work environment can be powerful tools in keeping great employees long-term.

If staffing has become a pain point for your company, you're not alone. TPCA is continuing to explore ways to support members through workforce development initiatives, training partnerships, and technician resources. Let us know what strategies are working for you CLICK HERE to share your ideas —we're stronger when we share solutions.

The New "Unsubscribe" Link Scam

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:45:19 GMT

A new cyber scam is making the rounds—and it's targeting even the most cautious users. This latest threat appears in the form of a simple, familiar feature: the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of marketing emails. Traditionally used as a tool for reducing inbox clutter, these links are now being weaponized by scammers to launch phishing attacks and install malware. Clicking what appears to be a harmless unsubscribe button could lead you to a spoofed website designed to steal your information—or worse, automatically download malicious software onto your device.

The scam works by mimicking legitimate email formats and inserting fake unsubscribe links. These emails often come from what looks like a reputable company or newsletter. When you click "unsubscribe," instead of removing you from a mailing list, it verifies to cybercriminals that your email address is active and vulnerable. In many cases, it redirects to malware or ransomware installations disguised as survey forms or confirmation pages. It's a trap that's easy to fall into, especially for busy professionals scanning through a cluttered inbox.

So how can you safely unsubscribe from emails you no longer want? First, use your email platform's built-in unsubscribe tools. Platforms like Gmail often display a verified unsubscribe option at the top of the message—clicking this is much safer than the link within the email body. Second, if you know the sender, go directly to the company's official website and log into your account settings to manage your communication preferences. This ensures you're on a secure, trusted site and not a spoofed version. Avoid clicking links in emails if you're even slightly suspicious—especially if the email was unsolicited or seems oddly formatted.

That's why staying ahead of scams like these is so important—and it's part of the value we strive to offer to our valued TPCA members. We know our members are focused on running their businesses, protecting their communities, and managing teams. Our goal is to help carry the load by filtering out noise and delivering practical, relevant alerts and resources directly to your inbox. Whether it's a new scam, a change in pesticide regulations, or an opportunity to earn CEUs, you'll find it in our newsletter.

In a world where digital threats evolve as quickly as pests adapt, information is as essential as pest control products. Cyber scams don't just affect individuals—they can compromise business systems, employee data, and customer trust. That's why we believe our role goes beyond technical knowledge and industry advocacy. TPCA is also here to protect your business on all fronts, including digital safety by keeping you informed.

Predictive Analytics: The Next Frontier in Pest Control

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:43:44 GMT

In an industry where timing and precision are everything, predictive analytics is emerging as a powerful tool for pest control companies looking to stay ahead of the curve. By analyzing historical data, environmental conditions, and pest behavior patterns, predictive analytics allows companies to anticipate infestations before they happen—and act proactively rather than reactively.

This means a shift from traditional service models to data-driven decision-making. Imagine being able to forecast termite swarms based on weather trends, or identify which multifamily properties are most at risk for bed bug outbreaks based on past service data. With predictive tools, you can allocate resources more efficiently, reduce emergency callouts, and offer clients a higher level of service backed by science.

These systems often integrate with smart traps, IoT sensors, and CRM platforms to collect and analyze real-time data. Over time, the software learns from patterns—such as seasonal spikes, geographic hotspots, or building vulnerabilities—and generates alerts or service recommendations. This not only improves operational efficiency, but also opens the door to premium service offerings that differentiate your business in a competitive market.

While still relatively new, predictive analytics is gaining traction among forward-thinking companies, especially those servicing commercial accounts, food facilities, and multifamily housing. As the technology becomes more accessible, early adopters will have a clear advantage in terms of customer retention, cost control, and brand reputation.

An appreciation of integrative technologies in the pest control industry is enhanced by the exploration of the past. The TPCA 2025 Summer Conference, July 23-25 in Chattanooga, will feature Dr. Karen Vail discussing, Discoveries: A Decade of Pest Monitoring in Multifamily Housing. Additional CEUs will be offered on sessions that range from the top, AI in Action: Top Tools and Time Savers, to the worst - The Worst of The Worst in Turf, that is. Conference registration is now open!

Marketing 101 - Best Practices For Small Businesses

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:42:01 GMT

Back in March 2025, PWIPM and TPCA hosted the webinar Marketing 101, Best Practices for Small Business Owners. It was presented by Jackie Lott, Marketing Manager of Bug Busters. Across the next several issues of this TPCA newsletter, Jackie's marketing wisdom will be featured.

Win-Back Marketing Strategies: Reclaiming Lost Customers

"This (win-back campaign) has been successful. We've been running this now for over a year. It's one of the first campaigns that I launched when we started using HubSpot and it's been successful. We've had quite a few customers that we've gotten back using the win-back strategy." - Jackie Lott

Customer churn is a reality for every service business, but in the pest control industry—where seasonality, pricing sensitivity, and perceived service value often cause customers to drop off—having a strong win-back marketing strategy is essential. Unlike acquiring new leads, which can cost 5–25x more, winning back a former customer often requires fewer resources and delivers faster conversions. With strategic timing, personalized messaging, and tiered incentives, pest control companies can turn “goodbye” into “welcome back.”

The Critical Timing Window for Win-Back Success
The first 30 to 60 days after cancellation is the most crucial window for re-engagement. According to data from Invesp, companies that reach out within this period are 3x more likely to recover a lost customer than those that wait longer. Another study by HubSpot reports that 45% of customers who re-engage with a brand do so within the first month of their cancellation. The key is not just speed, but structure—well-timed, thoughtful outreach that reminds the customer why they signed up for your services in the first place and what they’re missing now.

"For folks that have limited marketing budgets and staff it really does the lion share of the work to take some of those colder leads and drive them down the funnel." Jackie emphasizes the use of automated platforms which can free up your staff's marketing workload. Platforms such as HubSpot, Mailchimp, or Klaviyo are just a handful of products on the market that range in costs and some are even free. Always do your due diligence in researching the platform that best fits your needs and budget. At Bug Busters, Jackie uses a hybrid, cost-effective method of manually pulling reports of cancelled customers and dropping them into a targeted win-back drip campaign.

Win-Back Campaign Timeline: A Proven Email Drip Sequence

Here’s a sample win-back campaign that pest control companies can implement :

Day 1: "We Miss You" Email
Friendly and simple: Acknowledge the cancellation, thank them for their past business, and express that you’d love to help again. Include a small incentive (e.g., 10% off next service).
Subject line example: “We’re sorry to see you go – here’s 10% off if you come back.”
Day 5: "Did Something Go Wrong?" Email
Ask for feedback. This builds trust and gives insight into why they left. Reiterate the incentive.
Subject line example: “Can we fix this?”
Day 10: "Why Our Customers Come Back" Email
Include a testimonial or case study. Focus on value and peace of mind—highlight your results, guarantee, or proprietary process.
Subject line example: “What our returning customers say...”
Day 17: "Final Offer" Email
This is your strongest offer—possibly 20–25% off, a bonus add-on, or a free inspection. Use urgency with a deadline.
Subject line example: “Last chance – this offer ends in 48 hours!”
Day 30: "Still Thinking About It?" Email
Optional: A gentle nudge for those who didn’t respond. No discount—just a reminder and a contact link to speak directly with a service rep.

Measuring and Optimizing Your Results
A good win-back campaign can recover 10–30% of churned customers, depending on how long they’ve been inactive and how targeted the message is. Be sure to track open rates, click-through rates, and conversions at each email step. For best results, segment customers by type (e.g., residential vs. commercial), service history, and reason for cancellation when possible.

For pest control companies, win-back marketing is not just a good idea—it’s a high-ROI strategy that keeps your customer pipeline healthy and reduces acquisition costs. By acting quickly, creating a clear 3–5 email sequence, and offering meaningful incentives, you can turn cancellations into second chances—and keep your routes full!

Want to hit the easy button on creating win-back emails? CLICK HERE for samples to stir your creative juices, or copy and paste into your email platform and implement IMMEDIATELY.

Win-Back Email Samples: Ready To Use Immediately

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:27:10 GMT

CLICK HERE to see samples of emails for a win-back email drip campaign. You can even copy and paste these emails for immediate use! Be sure to read the instructions about customizing the emails.

What's Your Business Cancellation Rate? High Numbers = Deeper Issues!

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:50:09 GMT

A high customer cancellation rate is more than just a metric—it's a red flag indicating underlying problems with customer satisfaction, pricing models, or service quality. When customers leave in large numbers, it suggests they're not receiving the value they expected, whether due to unmet expectations, excessive costs, or poor service experiences. This can erode trust in a brand and damage its reputation, making it harder to attract new customers in the future.

Customer satisfaction often plays the most significant role in retention. If a product or service fails to deliver on its promises, customers are likely to cancel. Poor onboarding, slow support response times, or unreliable performance can quickly push users away. Similarly, pricing that feels disproportionate to the perceived value—whether too high or confusing—can discourage long-term commitments. In competitive markets, customers have options, and even minor missteps can lead to churn.

Service quality is another critical component. Consistency, responsiveness, and the ability to resolve issues efficiently all factor into how customers perceive a brand. A service that works great one day and poorly the next undermines confidence. High cancellation rates in this context suggest a need for operational improvements, better training, or more robust infrastructure.

Keeping cancellation rates low is essential for sustainable growth. Acquiring new customers is expensive—requiring substantial investment in sales and marketing. When existing customers leave, those costs increase because more effort is needed to backfill the lost revenue. Reducing churn stabilizes income streams and allows companies to focus resources on innovation and improving the customer experience instead of continually rebuilding their user base.

In short, high cancellation rates should be treated not as an isolated Key Performance Indicator (KPI), but as a critical indicator of business health. Identifying and addressing the root causes—be it satisfaction, pricing, or service delivery—can lead to stronger customer relationships, lower acquisition costs, and a more predictable path to long-term growth.

In next week's post, the series: Marketing 101 - Best Practices For Small Businesses returns with valuable strategies for winning back cancelled customers.

Destination: Chattanooga - DAY 3

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:47:21 GMT

Get ready to explore the best of Chattanooga with our 3-part series featuring a curated 3-day activity itinerary! Each day is packed with local highlights, outdoor adventures, and must-see attractions to help you make the most of your visit. The best part is that most of these adventures are FREE! Whether you're a first-timer or returning for more, this guide will help you experience Chattanooga like a pro.

Day 3

For the final day in Chattanooga, travel just outside of downtown and hit the rails. Train rails, that is, for all those train buffs the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-see! You can do more than just see, experience train rides of various lengths and locations to fully explore Tennessee.

This moving museum offers several ways to ride the rails. The popular Missionary Ridge Local, is a 65-minute ride to the East Chattanooga station where passengers travel through the famous pre-civil war Missionary Ridge tunnel, cross four bridges, and disembark to watch a 20th-century turntable in action for the ticket price of $25/rider. You can enjoy longer train rides, which can span six to eight hours round-trip .

Another great train adventure is at Lookout Mountain, which features one of the world's steepest passenger trains - Incline Railway. But Lookout Mountain is famous for the nation's largest and deepest waterfall, Ruby Falls. The journey begins with a 260 ft. descent down a glass-front elevator to journey deep inside Lookout Mountain where you will view the tallest underground waterfall.

Eye spy 7 states - Lover's Leap at Rock City is the spot to spot seven states from one viewpoint at Lookout Mountain. Rock City is 1700 ft. above sea level with views of High Falls, the 100 ft., man-made waterfall that cascades down the mountain, and the chance to cross the nearly 200 ft. Swing-A-Along bridge.

Want to explore from the clouds? Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip line adventure. Thrill seekers can experience stunning views and a 40 ft. climbing tower.

For the best prices and less wait times, it's best to pre-purchase tickets for these activities and to make reservations when available.

TPCA Summer Conference - DAY 3

July 25, 2025 - The TPCA Conference wraps with honors and connections. The TPCA Executive Board will honor distinguished members that have greatly contributed to TPCA and the pest control industry in Tennessee with the TPCA Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Then a networking opportunity to connect with TPCA leadership, hear key updates, and contribute to shaping the future of pest control in Tennessee.

CEUs such as, Mimicry and Deception in the Pest Control World, will be offered. CLICK HERE for the full schedule of sessions.

Scroll down for more information about conference attendee and sponsor registration.

No Mosquitoes in Disney - The Business Take Away For Your Pest Control Company

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:23:14 GMT

Visitors to Walt Disney World often marvel at the park’s immaculate landscapes, thrilling attractions, and pristine environments—but few realize one of its most impressive features: the near-total absence of mosquitoes. Located in central Florida, one of the most mosquito-prone regions in the U.S., Disney’s success in mosquito control is no accident. It’s the result of a sophisticated, multi-pronged strategy that combines advanced drainage systems, strategic architecture, intelligent landscaping, and professional spraying programs. For pest control companies, Disney’s methods offer a powerful selling point and a proven model for success.

A key component of Disney’s mosquito-free experience is its drainage infrastructure. The parks are engineered to eliminate standing water, which mosquitoes need to breed. Even decorative features like swamps and ponds are designed with constant movement—thanks to fountains or flowing water—to keep the pests at bay. In addition to smart engineering, the park’s architecture avoids features that collect water, such as flat rooftops or poorly graded walkways. Every inch of the park is carefully built to reduce mosquito habitats before they ever begin.

Landscaping is another subtle but effective tactic. Disney uses plants that naturally repel insects and designs their green spaces to minimize hidden, damp areas where mosquitoes could thrive. But perhaps the most transferable strategy for pest control businesses is the use of professional-grade mosquito spraying. Disney employs safe, targeted fogging and larvicides to keep mosquito populations under control without disrupting the guest experience. This aspect of their strategy can be a compelling pitch for pest control services aiming to offer effective mosquito management.

What Pest Control Companies Can Learn From Disney

Pest control companies can take a page from Disney’s playbook by positioning their spraying services as part of a holistic, premium solution—one trusted by the world’s most famous theme park. It is essential to educate your customers about the vigilance to eliminate standing water at their residence. For those proactive customers, discussing conscientious landscaping can only enhance their mosquito defenses. However, make the point that these methods are utilized at Disney at the highest level, yet the need for commercial spraying is the greater part of the solution.

By emphasizing a proven approach that combines treatment with prevention, professionals can elevate their services from a seasonal necessity to a lifestyle investment. After all, if it works for Disney, why not your customer's backyard?

Destination: Chattanooga - DAY 2

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:14:08 GMT

Day 2

Hope you had a full night's rest after Day 1! You'll want to start Day 2 with a hearty breakfast. So head to Milk & Honey for their iconic Milk & Honey Latte and a farmhouse biscuit. Another Chattanooga fave is Niedlov's - their baked goods are legendary. Day 2 is all about exploring Chattanooga via water. Begin on land with the Chattanooga Ducks kid-centric tour for all ages that winds through downtown streets before plunging into the Tennessee River for a cruise around Maclellan Island. The amphibious tour is made possible by the DUKW boat (AKA Duck), which was used in WWII for water landings with corny jokes and duck-billed noisemakers at no extra charge.

More water adventure awaits aboard the Southern Belle, a vintage steamboat, which boasts panoramic views of the riverfront and Lookout Mountain. After a leisurely cruise and learning about the Tennessee River's history and legends, explore Ross’ Landing and the Tennessee Riverpark. That is, if water cannons, a leisurely walk down The Passage stairs (a waterfall), and a small playground overlooking the river holds your interest. And that's just your morning!

The afternoon is for jaguars, snow leopards, and red pandas - oh, my! Visit the Chattanooga Zoo for a trip through an African forest, South American jungle, and Himalayan Passage. Touring takes about an hour to an hour and a half. Your not done with water fun yet. Head to the Creative Discovery Museum, where kids can splash in a manmade “river,” and dig for dinosaur bones in the sand.

For a classic American amusement park fun experience for the whole family, Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park is only a 15-minute drive outside of Downtown Chattanooga. And if you have dried off at this point, Lake Winnepesaukah features the SOAKya water park.

TPCA Summer Conference - DAY 2

July 24, 2025 - Pack away your bowling shoes from the bowling fun on Day 1, and put on your learning hat. This conference day is packed with CEU's and educational sessions that range from Insects and Light to AI in Action Marketing. CLICK HERE for the full schedule of sessions.

The stakes are raised when the first conference day is wrapped with a Casino Event that includes dinner. Not all will win prizes, but fun will be had by ALL!

Marketing 101 - Best Practices For Small Businesses

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:40:47 GMT

Google Business Profile

The first marketing tip can be implemented immediately, and at NO cost! It is essential to setup a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).

Jackie emphasizes that: The storefront for your pest control business is on Google. When people search locally for a business using search terms like 'pest control service near me' or 'pest control company' or just 'pest control near me', various things like that often takes them to a Google Maps search result. And if you don't have a Google My Business page or it's not properly optimized, people are not going to find your business.

If you have already completed this first step, don't get too comfortable just yet. Things to consider:

Did you complete your profile setup fully?
Do you maintain/update your business profile?

Jackie advises the following: When you're optimizing your Google My Business page, you want to make sure that you fill it out fully; adding things in like the hours you do business, descriptions of your services.

You also want to include real photos in this part of your marketing as well. Again when people get to your Google My Business page, they don't want to see a bunch of stock photos. This can throw red flags for potential customers and Google doesn't like that either. So use real photos of your technicians in action, and take them horizontally (landscape). You can easily use smartphones, which is a great way to do it; and often it will even add a location to where the photo is taken to help you show up locally when you post those photos in your service area. And just make sure these photos are taken with good lighting.

SEO optimization is the buzz word that still continues to buzz. According to Jackie: When they use this type of search, local SEO is extremely important and something you want to focus on.

The next step is to continuously maintain and update your profile and virtually interact with customers and potential customers. This can easily be done by adding Google Business to your social media marketing list. You can utilize the same post from your Instagram, Facebook and X on Google Business. Each post type can provide your audience with specific details about your business (e.g. adjusted business hours or new services offered) and allows you to add a call to action button.

Learn more about setting up and maintaining your Google Business Profile.

Destination: Chattanooga - DAY 1

Thu, 22 May 2025 16:33:57 GMT

Day 1

Start your Chattanooga adventure at the Tennessee Aquarium, which opens daily at 10AM and takes at least two hours to explore. One ticket grants you access to both of its impressive buildings, where you’ll encounter everything from playful penguins and otters to alligators, sturgeon, and a rooftop garden filled with fluttering butterflies. For a more immersive experience, consider the Deeper Dive guided tour—an exclusive behind-the-scenes look that offers close encounters with the animals and insights from the expert caretakers who look after them.

Stroll across the Walnut Street Walking Bridge – one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges. to arrive at the North Shore historic district, the best place to experience the "Small, Local, and Cool" of Chattanooga. The NorthShore is filled with one-of-a-kind businesses owned by passionate locals. CLICK HERE to explore all the great places to eat, shop and play on the NorthShore.

For an afternoon adventure, head down to Coolidge Park and explore the expansive green lawn. While you are there, be sure to ride the beautifully restored Coolidge Park antique carousel for only $1! If the summer heat gets to you, pack bathing suits and splash around in the water play fountain.

Explore the bustling Northshore on the available free shuttle. CLICK HERE for detailed shuttle routes. The shuttle ride is free, but parking at designated pick-up lots charges a fee.

TPCA Summer Conference - DAY 1

July 23, 2025 - If this is your travel day to Chattanooga, you will be treated to a casual and fun night before the "business" of the conference begins the next day. After checking into The Chattanoogan Hotel, join us at Southside Social for cocktails, food and fun - bowling fun, that is! The fun begins at 5PM. If you "can" bring canned goods to the event to contribute to TPCA's giveback project supporting The Chattanooga Area Food Bank.

Need to register for the summer conference? CLICK HERE

How to Equip Your Team to Handle "Door Knocking" Pest Control Companies

Mon, 12 May 2025 16:03:26 GMT

If you've been in the pest control industry for a while, you’ve likely dealt with the fallout from aggressive door-to-door sales tactics. These "door knocker" pest control companies often rely on pressure sales and misleading claims to win over unsuspecting customers. The result? Confused, skeptical homeowners and businesses who may already be under contract with your company—or worse, ready to cancel based on false information.

It’s frustrating, but here’s the good news: your team can become your most effective line of defense against this misinformation. With the right training, both your technicians and customer service reps (CSRs) can turn these situations into opportunities to build trust, reinforce your brand, and keep customers loyal.

Start by training your team on the most common tactics used by door knockers. These might include telling homeowners their current provider "doesn’t treat for certain pests," claiming to be "taking over routes" in the area, or offering steep discounts "only available today." The first give-away of an unreputable business is no clearly marked service vehicle with a professional company logo.

When your team knows what kinds of misinformation are out there, they can speak confidently and calmly to correct it—not with panic or defensiveness, but with professionalism and facts.

Next, invest in soft skills training for both techs and CSRs. Your frontline employees should be skilled in active listening, validating customer concerns, and calmly offering evidence-based responses. For example: “I understand why that might be confusing. Actually, we do treat for that pest—here’s how our service plan handles it.” A well-informed, confident answer can instantly dissolve the credibility of a door knocker’s claims.

Consistency is also key. Create a communication playbook or set of talking points that your staff can refer to when handling common objections or misinformation. Role-playing scenarios during training sessions can help reinforce these skills, giving your team the confidence to handle real-time objections without freezing up or sounding confrontational.

Make sure your CSRs are equipped to document and follow up on these interactions. If a customer calls in after a door knocker visit, your team should know how to reassure them, offer additional documentation, or escalate the call if needed. A friendly, solution-oriented tone can be the difference between a canceled account and a renewed contract.

Lastly, reinforce company pride. Door knockers might be loud, but your quiet consistency, quality service, and educated team speak volumes over time. Let your customers know they can always reach a real person—someone who knows their home, understands their concerns, and truly values their business. That kind of relationship can’t be sold in a five-minute pitch on the porch.

Pest Industry Watchdog - Corteva Agriscience

Mon, 12 May 2025 16:01:23 GMT

Corteva Agriscience, a valued partner-sponsor of TPCA, discusses 3 problems in the pest management/control industry and offer their solutions.

Corteva Agriscience™ (NYSE: CTVA) is a leading global agriculture company dedicated to enriching the lives of those who produce and consume, ensuring progress for generations to come. Established as an independent entity in 2019 following its separation from DowDuPont, Corteva combines industry-leading innovation, customer engagement, and operational execution to address the world's most pressing agricultural challenges.

The company's diverse portfolio includes advanced seed technologies, crop protection solutions, and digital services, all aimed at maximizing productivity for farmers worldwide. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Corteva continues to develop solutions that support both agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship.

The Sentricon System

Developed by Corteva, the Sentricon® System is a scientifically designed termite baiting solution that targets and eliminates entire subterranean termite colonies, including the queen. Introduced in 1995, Sentricon® has become the No. 1 brand in termite protection, safeguarding nearly 5 million structures across the United States.

Key Features:

Proven Efficacy: Backed by over 100+ scientific and independent research studies, Sentricon effectively eliminates termite colonies.
Environmentally Responsible: Sentricon is the only termite product awarded the EPA's Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award for its environmentally friendly formulation.
Non-Invasive Installation: The system involves placing bait stations around the perimeter of a structure, eliminating the need for drilling or trenching, thus preserving the property's aesthetics.
Continuous Protection: Regular monitoring and maintenance by Certified Sentricon Specialists® ensure ongoing defense against termite infestations.

Notably, Sentricon has been trusted to protect national landmarks such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Statue of Liberty, demonstrating its reliability and effectiveness in termite control.

For more information about Corteva Agriscience and the Sentricon System, please visit www.corteva.com and www.sentricon.com.

1. Customer Retention and Revenue Stability

Challenge: High cancellation rates can hinder a company's success, leading to lost opportunities and increased acquisition costs.

Sentricon’s Solution:

Proven Effectiveness: The Sentricon® System is scientifically designed to eliminate entire subterranean termite colonies, including the queen. This comprehensive approach provides homeowners with peace of mind, encouraging long-term service contracts.
Certified Sentricon Specialist’s Advantage: As a Certified Sentricon Specialist® (CSS), pest management professionals (PMPs) gain access to exclusive training, marketing resources, and customer education materials. This support helps effectively communicate the value of continuous protection to clients, enhancing customer loyalty and revenue stability.

2. Bundling and Cross-Selling Services

Challenge: Bundling services is an effective strategy to increase revenue and customer satisfaction. By combining multiple pest control services into one package, companies can offer comprehensive solutions that appeal to customers seeking convenience and cost savings.

Sentricon's Solution:

Integration of Services: The Sentricon® System can be seamlessly integrated into bundled service offerings. For instance, PMPs can combine termite protection with general pest control or mosquito treatments, providing a one-stop solution for clients.
Certified Sentricon Specialist’s Advantage: CSSs receive customized marketing materials and sales support, enabling them to effectively cross-sell services during client interactions. This approach not only increases revenue but also enhances customer satisfaction by offering comprehensive pest management solutions.

3. Employee Retention and Engagement

Challenge: The pest control industry faces significant challenges in retaining skilled technicians and fostering a motivated workforce. High turnover rates can disrupt service continuity and increase recruitment and training costs.

Sentricon's Solution:

Enhanced Technician Productivity: The Sentricon® System's design allows for efficient termite colony elimination, enabling technicians to complete jobs more swiftly and effectively. This efficiency reduces the physical and mental strain on employees, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower burnout rates.
Comprehensive Training and Support: Corteva Agriscience™ offers extensive training for Certified Sentricon Specialists®, equipping technicians with the knowledge and skills to handle various termite situations. This investment in professional development not only boosts employee confidence but also fosters a sense of value and belonging within the company.
Career Advancement Opportunities: By becoming a Certified Sentricon Specialist, technicians gain access to a recognized certification that can enhance their career prospects within the pest control industry. This pathway for professional growth encourages employees to stay and develop within the company.
Recognition and Incentive Programs: Implementing incentive programs that reward technicians for successful use of the product or for obtaining certifications can further motivate employees. Recognizing achievements fosters a positive work environment and reinforces desired behaviors.
Work-Life Balance: The Sentricon System's efficiency allows technicians to manage their schedules better, promoting a healthier work-life balance. Companies that support their employees in achieving this balance often see improved morale and reduced turnover.

By addressing these key challenges—customer retention, service bundling, and employee engagement—Corteva Agriscience and the Sentricon® System provide comprehensive solutions that support the growth and success of pest management professionals.

Q&A's To Value Your Company

Mon, 05 May 2025 14:49:04 GMT

Written by Bob Williamson, pest & lawn director for the M&A advisory firm Cetane Associates. This article was originally posted on PMP Pest Management Professional

As a kid, I would play "10 Questions" to meet new friends. I discovered it was a great way to learn more about people I didn't know.

I meet pest management professionals (PMPs) often, and they will ask me for a value multiple for their business. My professional answer is "It depends — please let me ask you a few questions." What follow are 10 questions I would expect them to know the answers to and readily share.

1. What are your yearly gross sales?

Good – The higher, the better
Bad – Not a deal breaker, but smaller deals often require a strong market presence to allow existing operations to absorb.

2. What percentage of renewable services do you provide?

Let's define renewable. My best and very liberal definition is any service that is routinely scheduled by the company, as compared to waiting for the customer to call. There are many gradients to this answer, with the gold standard being automatic monthly credit card payments for quarterly or bi-monthly service based on geographic region.

Good – 80 percent or better
Fair – 65 percent to 79 percent
Poor – Less than 65 percent

3. When was your last price increase?

Great – They do one every year.
Good – Six months to a year ago, and they know how much.
Fair – They do one about every three years.
Bad – Either they don't know, or it was more than three years ago.

Few customers care when you wait three years and then increase to try and catch up. Your employees care, however, when they don't see routine increases.

4. What do you charge for a residential quarterly or bi-monthly service?

Good – The higher, the better
Bad – More than 20 percent below what the buyer charges

This is the easiest way to determine relative price. Commercial and one-time services are tricky and difficult to compare. An obtuse answer here is scary. This rate will help determine your value to the buyer. New owners will avoid any significant price increases for at least six months to minimize disruption.

5. What is your commercial vs. residential ratio?

This answer will have a very different impact for each buyer. Residential is more often better, but not exclusively so. Multi-family housing can be a deal killer for some buyers and acceptable to others. Unlike the other nine questions, though, nearly all sellers know this number.

6. Do you do any bid work for municipalities or school districts?

Good – They never take on that work.
Fair – They do a few small ones.
Poor – It is a large part of their business.

Bid work almost always goes to the lowest bidder, and some contracts have stayed the same for more than 10 years. This is not a good model to run your business.

7. What software do you use to run your business?

Good – They use a reputable pest control business software system. Bonus points if they elaborate on having someone on staff as an expert in using the software.
Fair – They use a system that is no longer supported.

Not as bad as it sounds – They still hand route or use an index card system. This will require manual data entry for the new owner. I have done several deals for firms like this, however, and sometimes I can pull better notes from the cards than what they may have otherwise entered into a software application.

8. What vehicles do you use?

Good – Any answer that indicates they are in the practice of replacing vehicles routinely.
Bad – They haven't bought a new vehicle in a while.

Vehicles are an important part of running a pest control business. A good business will have a practice in place to replace vehicles routinely.

9. Are you an active member of your state pest association?

Great –They serve on the board.
Good – They attend meetings routinely and have several friends there.
Fair – They're a member, but rarely attend meetings.
Poor – They have no interest in belonging to industry organizations.

This speaks volumes about the owner's commitment to running a growing, professional business.

10. How many employees do you have?

I try to correlate answers back to revenue to get some idea of the efficiency and scale. Many firms are currently under their desired staff count. Depending on the magnitude, this will need to be clarified to assess the impact. I like to hear positive personal endorsements of staff, because it speaks to the owner's engagement in the business.

Mosquitoes: The Necessary Pest - Who Knew?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:08:38 GMT

Of the 200+ types of mosquitoes in the U.S., twelve carry the West Nile and Zika viruses. More than simply being annoying, mosquitoes can be dangerous, yet they are an important part of the world's ecosystem

Michael Benard, associate professor and chair of Case Western Reserve University's Department of Biology, focuses research on how to control mosquito populations while maintaining environmental stability. Specifically emphasizing how changing environments affect organisms' abundances, traits and ecological interactions. Benard says to first look to amphibians.

In an article from Case Western Reserve Universiy's The Daily, Benard states: "Amphibians provide an important ecological service in insect control and are a sensitive indicator of environmental change that might directly harm humans."

In a survey of wetlands across various habitats, biologists in Switzerland associated high numbers of mosquitoes in wetlands that were modified by humans. Specifically, areas with low amphibian populations had higher numbers of mosquitoes.

Insecticides have been used to effectively control both the flying adult mosquitos and the aquatic larval mosquitoes. However, some insecticides may have negatively effect fish, amphibians and other animals.

Eco-friendly methods of mosquito control employed by pest control companies, such as trapping, larviciding, and IPM, can help restore the ecological balance tipped by heavy insecticide usage.

The question remains: Why are mosquitoes important? They are an important food source for animals. In particular, mosquitoes are the cuisine of choice in the diets of over 70% of the little brown bats sampled in the midwestern U.S. Also, the aquatic larvae of mosquitoes are the preferred prey of many salamanders. An individual salamander can consume over 800 mosquito larvae per day.

Therefore, if mosquitoes disappear, many animals will lose an important food source. It is important to maintain healthy, balanced ecosystems that benefits creatures great and small (even if they are annoying). Let's not forget that mosquitoes are the unsung pollinators.

A targeted approach that uses multiple methods based on the local environment can be an effective way to control mosquitos while limiting negative effects on other species. This ultimately has a positive impact on us humans.

Pest Industry Watchdog

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:04:29 GMT

We recently caught up with David Johnson, North Central Region Manager of AP&G Co./ Catchmaster, Inc. a leading manufacturer of Intelligent Pest Management solutions. AP&G is a family-owned company with a proud history of making quality glue-based pest control products that are trusted by the pros. Additionally, Catchmaster is a valued partner-sponsor of TPCA. David shared three concerns that face the pest control industry.

Spotted Lanternfly (SLF)

A native of China, the insect was discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to 13 other states. Though beautiful as an adult, the insect is a voracious eater that feeds on woody and ornamental trees as well as a wide variety of crops and plants. Left unchecked, Pennsylvania alone could lose hundreds of millions of dollars and thousands of jobs. Oddly enough, USDA scientists have discovered that the SLF is attracted to vibrations and are exploring how these methods may be applicable to controlling SLF populations.

With tree farms and vineyards being especially vulnerable to SLF, Catchmaster has a key product to help monitor their activity. Their effective tree banding glue can easily be applied to vineyard end posts, fence posts and even on trees themselves.

Glue boards for rodent management

Catchmaster's glue is unique as it is designed to target the specific need for your rodent management program. Just be sure to monitor them constantly to account for dust or other conditions that could negatively affect the trap's performance. If you find that rodent sticky traps are not working, consider changing locations, replacing your traps with new clean ones, or using larger traps. The more the merrier when it comes to using multiple traps. Be sure to place them in different directions in order to maximize your catch and make trapping easier. Just be sure not to overwhelm small spaces with too many traps.

Another concern with glue traps is the cold weather. Catchmaster's Cold Weather Glue Trays are made with AP&G's legendary, non-toxic glue formula and are the only cold weather glue trays on the market to work in temperature down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. They are also a great option for locations that are damp and/or humid, where glue boards and other traps may not hold up.

EPA 15-year cycle

Catchmaster is watching the Pesticide Interim Decision (PID) that is still upcoming on the 13 actives targeting our industry's SG anticoagulated rodenticides. Although Catchmaster does not have any SG anticoagulant products in this arena, it is still a concern as they are a much-needed tool for our industry.

Our glue is our bond

Backed with 65+ years of know-how, Catchmaster utilizes a science-based approach to create high-quality products for rodent, insect & mosquito management. Their products are field-tested under the harshest conditions to ensure maximum reliability for any level of pest control expert. With the firm belief that monitoring is a cornerstone to Intelligent Pest Management, Catchmaster's products allow you to monitor rodents, insects & mosquitoes with confidence.

No matter if you are needing glue trays to aid in cold environments or if you are needing to capture female mosquitos, Catchmaster has the formulation that will do the job with confidence!

David Johnson

75 East 2^nd Street Bayonne, NJ 07002

AP&G Co./ Catchmaster, Inc.

djohnson@catchmasterpro.com

Your Best FLEET Forward

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:39:23 GMT

As digital technologies continue to evolve, pest control fleets will face both opportunities and challenges in adapting to these advancements. By focusing on fundamental practices, such as fleet maintenance and safety policies, owners and operators can safeguard their businesses against emerging challenges while preparing for future growth.

Problem: Commercial Auto Accidents & High Vehicle Maintenance Costs

Distracted driving remains a leading cause of commercial auto accidents, but telematics and GPS tracking provide tools to mitigate risks by identifying unsafe driving behaviors and training needs. Despite rising costs and supply chain challenges, cutting back on vehicle maintenance, safety training, or insurance can exponentially increase risk exposure. Instead, fostering a culture of safety—with regular maintenance, driver training, and enforced fleet policies—helps prevent claims, control premiums, and ensure business continuity.

Problem: Growing Business - Growing Costs

The pest control market is projected to thrive in 2025, driven by urbanization and increased awareness of health risks associated with pests. However, rising operational costs of critical resources — including labor, fuel and vehicles — and an uncertain economy will push PMPs to optimize efficiency and ROI. Companies that adopt AI-powered tools and intelligent automation, will gain a competitive edge by enhancing productivity, improving customer service, and boosting profitability despite resource constraints.

Problem: Distressing MVR's

Hiring drivers with clean motor vehicle records (MVRs) and sufficient experience is crucial, even in today's challenging labor market. Regularly checking MVRs, at least twice a year, can help prevent coverage exclusions by insurers due to accidents or violations. To further mitigate risks, consider installing cameras and telematics in your fleet, hiring a fleet manager to oversee driving behavior, and addressing issues with problem drivers through coaching or, if necessary, termination. Proactive measures like these are essential to navigating the current fleet market effectively.

Business owners and insurance providers must stay informed about industry changes to effectively address risk management and vehicle safety. Prioritizing essential practices like fleet maintenance and robust safety policies enables owners and operators to protect their businesses from evolving challenges and build a strong foundation for sustained growth.

Beef, Venison & Ticks - Oh, My!

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:35:28 GMT

The lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) has long been associated with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), the red meat allergy that has become increasingly prevalent. However, the latest issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases from the CDC reveals that the lone star tick is not the lone suspect.

What is AGS?

The steady stream of saliva released by the A. americanum tick bite, to keep its prey's blood flowing, contains a sugar molecule called alpha-gal. Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is not caused by a bacterium or virus like lyme disease or the heartland virus. The syndrome is instead an immune reaction to alpha-gal, a sugar found in almost all non primate animals, such as cows, horses and deer. The tick bite triggers an immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody response in the body. People who mount this response develop an allergy to red meat. AGS was discovered in 2009, and the emergence of food allergies, following the tick bite, varies from hours to months after eating red meat. Researchers continue to study and unlock the perplexities of AGS.

Currently, the CDC shows high concentrations of AGS in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Missouri, Kansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

The new tick in town

Cases of AGS in Washington and Maine have emerged, which is outside the territory of the lone star tick (predominately in the southern, midwestern, and mid-Atlantic regions). The CDC article links these cases of AGS to Ixodes scapularis, also called black-legged or deer ticks.

What this means to PMPs

Expand your client's education. Let customers know about the potential risks posed of AGS by a wider range of tick species, not just the lone star tick.
Expand your tick management program and training. Emphasize the importance of comprehensive tick control measures and learn how to target multiple species. Protect yourself and your team with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when treating tick accounts.
Prepare for increased public awareness. It’s a good idea to create a script for your office and sales teams to use as the weather gets warmer and calls come in about tick control and prevention. It’s important to sound authoritative, with the data to back you up, but not frightening. Let callers know that you can help them mitigate the risk.

The "E" in TEAM

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:32:43 GMT

TPCA is in the business of improving your business

As a valued member of TPCA, you have access to valuable educational resources that not only keep you informed about the latest pest control techniques and regulations, but also growing your business.

Business growth is not always measured in expanded territories or profits. It can be measured in the overall health and vitality of your company. This can be acquired by better business practices, such as emphasizing employee development.

Why is employee development important?

Investing in employee development programs lead to higher employee satisfaction, better retention rates, and a competitive edge in the market. Employee development involves continuous learning and skill enhancement that aligns with both individual career growth and company goals.

Employees who perceive growth opportunities are more likely to be engaged and committed to your company. Additionally, well-rounded development programs address gaps in skills and knowledge, while equipping employees to meet the evolving demands of their roles. This leads to increased efficiency, innovation, and productivity within teams.

Individual employee growth drives the company's growth

Professional growth can significantly benefit both your employee's career and your company. Professional growth efforts in the workplace include:

Provide learning opportunities for new skills that will support employees as they advance in their career
Provide employees with opportunities to work on areas they may be struggling with
Help them become more productive and efficient in their work
Allow them to develop and share a new perspective on a particular business strategy or way of doing things more efficiently
Keep them up-to-date on relevant skills and knowledge in the pest management industry by registering them for CEU conferences and technical day schools