Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest Conference

An effective rodent control program includes a team approach with centralized management and accountability. Environmental factors, the behavior of people, and the capability of organizations (government, businesses, and communities) must be evaluated when a rodent control program is designed. There must be excellent resources for community outreach, regulatory enforcement, and data management. Personnel must have technical skills and the ability to work with people. The program team should include several municipal organizations, each with defined responsibilities and communication structure. The pest control, landscaping, restaurant, and solid waste industries must be integrated into the program. Sustainability, cost-containment, and success ultimately are predicated on diverse community involvement.