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.