In this article , Dee Ward- Thompson , BPCA Technical Manager gives an insight into why pest control is important – and sets out some of the major factors of note for the farming community . The next generation issue - fighting resilience

BPCA has been highlighting the importance of expert pest control across the farming sector for many years – and a report revealed this year illustrated clearly why it ’ s so important .

A study by the University of Reading has revealed a new generation of rats carrying a genetic mutation which makes them resistant to conventional poison .

The report , commissioned by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use ( CRRU ), has identified " the massive extent of L120Q resistance across the whole of central southern England .”

While the report highlights the situation in the region , it makes it clear that the data is not available for the rest of the UK . That means resistance is highly likely to be growing in rat species across a swathe of the country .

The report also states that rats without the genetic mutation are being killed off by poison , so the resistant species are taking their place , leaving a growing population of resistant pure-breds .

With their numbers expanding there could be a significant risk to public health if their population is left unchecked , in rural environments , as well as urban areas .

And this rise in resistance could be due to a number of factors .

However , it is most likely the spread has been accelerated by the application of rodenticides , by amateurs doing it themselves , or

employing an unqualified individual to try to resolve the problem .

The clear message is , therefore , that to be effective in tackling this issue , people should not attempt to self-treat rats .

Rats must be dealt with by those with the skills required to understand rodent behaviour and their habitat , and who know how to treat any particular strain .

This is something which is becoming increasingly significant across the farming sector .

It is an issue that needs to be tackled head-on to prevent a problem that has all the potential to become an issue of major national concern – and it ’ s vital that the farming community takes the right steps now and is protected professionally , to prevent a huge challenge in years to come .

Professional-use only rodenticides are often more successful , but most are subject to strict legislation , as set out in requirements for farmers and growers at the beginning of this year .

From January 1st , changes

introduced under rodenticide stewardship mean that farmers are now only be able to purchase professional rodenticides if they can demonstrate they are signedup to a compliant assurance scheme or have completed an approved training course .

That leaves farmers who are not signed up to these schemes limited to three options ;

1 ) take an approved training course in order to purchase rodenticide ,

2 ) employ a certified professional pest controller ,

3 ) or use rodenticide products authorised for amateur usage . The value of engagement

To really get to grips with pest numbers on farms , the subject needs to be treated proactively rather than reactively – and that process points to the value of the appointment of a certified pest controller from the three options listed above .

A large part of prevention is thinking ahead and identifying potential causes and entry points before infestations occur .

Farmers who engage with professional pest controllers will benefit from this forward-thinking , targeted approach .

This process can include inspecting outbuildings , grain stores and the surrounding area on a routine basis and reporting on the status of pest infestations , organising and undertaking a programme of treatments , as well as using pest control equipment or chemicals to control and eliminate

target pests . Good practice also means fewer products being used , and the adoption of resilient preventative methods and activities , which are so crucial in view of the points raised above .

By employing a member company through the BPCA referral service , farmers can be sure they ’ re using a qualified technician who is able to purchase and apply relevant products that can tackle such issues of resistance .

We ’ ve established strict criteria to ensure the professionalism of our members so companies carrying our logo will carry out safe , effective and legal pest management .

It is activities to raise the professionalism of the pest control industry which have seen BPCA stand out as the authority in this important area .

For farmers , that means access to a professional network of technicians with the insight and expertise to deliver the right solutions for agricultural environments .

BPCA also offers a wealth of information online to support the farming community . This includes PestAware , bpca . org . uk / PestAware which features professional advice from leading experts in the pest control industry , to help viewers help tackle pest problems .

Other activities events and exhibitions offering an opportunity to discuss current issues .