Tuesday, November 22, 2016

New ACEs and BCEs - including our 1,000th ACE

The ACE program crossed a milestone this month when the 1,000th person for the year earned his ACE. This is not the 1,000th person to ever earn the ACE, but the Rudy Ayala pushed our overall count of ACEs over 1,000 for the first time when he passed his exam on November 16 (the event was covered in the EntomologyToday blog). Please help us to celebrate all of the new ACEs and BCEs who passed their exams since mid-September.

New BCEs:
  • Mr. Paul M. Zarebicki, BCE, (State of Delaware, Division of Fish and Wildlife), Milford, DE  USA.  Certified on 9/15/2016
  • Mr. Wei Leong Chong, BCE, (Ikari Services PTE Ltd.), Singapore,   Singapore.  Certified on 10/10/2016
New ACEs:
  • Ms. Corinne Down, ACE-I, (Abell Pest Control), Cochrane, AB  Canada.  Certified on 10/24/2016
  • Mr. Juan Jose Higueros, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Anaheim, CA  USA.  Certified on 9/16/2016
  • Mr. William E. Reardon, ACE, (Royal Pest Solutions), West Chester, PA  USA.  Certified on 9/30/2016
  • Mr. Michael James Cook, ACE, (Ecolab), Mukwonago, WI  USA.  Certified on 9/30/2016
  • Mr. John Young, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Matthew J Wise, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Michael Biando, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Todd Kirk, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Tom Dunn, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Jason Pugh, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Jimmie D. McIntyre, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Brian Keith Doyle, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Dennis Ahchin, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Lance Van Zant, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 10/5/2016
  • Mr. Micheal D. Dirks, ACE, (Dirks Pest Management Specialist), Royersford, PA  USA.  Certified on 10/6/2016
  • Mr. Rock T Thweatt, ACE, (Roberts Termite and Pest Control, Inc), Austin, TX  USA.  Certified on 10/19/2016
  • Mr. Thomas L Wright, ACE, (Pest Pro Academy), Carrollton, TX  USA.  Certified on 10/19/2016
  • Mr. William Jay Beems, ACE, (Ecolab), Bel Aire, KS  USA.  Certified on 10/25/2016
  • Mr. Robert David Lockwood, ACE, (Rentokil/Ehrlich), Milford, CT  USA.  Certified on 10/29/2016
  • Mr. Jeffrey Ryan Schmidt, ACE, (Copesan Services Inc.), Menomonee Falls, WI  USA.  Certified on 11/7/2016
  • Mr. Nicholas Brian Fowler, ACE, (Applied Pest Management Inc), Vallejo, CA  USA.  Certified on 11/9/2016
  • Mr. Bobby Mullins, ACE, (Terminix), Charleston, WV  USA.  Certified on 11/11/2016
  • Mr. Rudy Ayala, ACE, (Spearhead Pest Control), Ventura, CA USA. Certified on 11/16/2016

Friday, September 16, 2016

Newly certified - thru Sept 14, 2016

Please join ESA in congratulating these PMPs for earning their ESA certification.

Ms. Heather King, BCE, (American Pest Control), Athens, GA  USA.  Certified on 8/26/2016
Mrs. Kristen Coleen Stevens, BCE-Intern, (University of Florida), Gainesville, FL  USA.  Certified on 8/15/2016

Mr. Michael John Jaurigui, ACE, (Alert Pest Control), Daly City, CA  USA.  Certified on 9/8/2016
Mr. Paul Walton, ACE, (Ecolab Pest Elimination), Hughson, CA  USA.  Certified on 8/31/2016
Mr. Sean Thomas Hannon, ACE, (Dirks PMS), Collegeville, PA  USA.  Certified on 8/25/2016
Ms. Dusana A. Bondy, ACE-I, (Abell Pest Control INC), Barrie, ON  Canada.  Certified on 8/18/2016

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

PestWorld East Review



ESA's Chris Stelzig meeting with attendees at
PestWorld East on August 29 in Panjim, Goa, India
I'd never been to India before, so was not sure what to expect from my first trip which was to attend PestWorld East at the Grand Hyatt in Goa, India on 27-29 August 2016. This meeting was a joint production of the Indian Pest Control Association and the NPMA.

To say that I was impressed is an understatement. 

From the impressive array of speakers, cultural programming, delicious food, interesting tour opportunities, and the high level of the attendees at the conference, this trip was a win by any standards.

The IPCA had an incredible attendance of about 525 (last count I heard) interested, attentive, professional, and dedicated PMPs. I honestly don't think I've ever attended a pest management conference where the audience in the training sessions paid attention like this group did. The speakers included (too many to list them all) included many ESA members, such as Chow-Yang Lee (BCE), Jim Fredericks (BCE), Su Yee Lim (BCE), Faith Oi, and Dini Miller. Jim and I contributed to a session on professionalism in pest management and credentialing possibilities that exist -- including ACE, ACE-I, and BCE. There are currently no ACEs in India, but that won't last for long. Especially with talented and dedicated BCEs like Jayant Dandawate and Ruparao T. Gahukar to serve as proctors.

I had the privilege to spend some time with Anil Rao, owner of PCI and some members of his professional team and family. PCI is the largest pest management firm in the nation and it shows in the quality that they bring to their work. They take a science-based approach to pest management, even operating a laboratory in-house for product research and development.

ESA ran an exhibit booth that frequently had attendees lined up to visit. I quickly ran out of business cards and made nearly five times as many contacts as I would normally make at a professional conference like this. Next time I'll pack more cards!

The takeaway for me is this -- India is a country where the pest management industry is in great shape and is growing rapidly in professionalism. I look forward to having an opportunity to return.


Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Newly certified

Please join us in congratulating these newly certified individuals who have earned their credentials in the past few months.

New BCEs:
  • Ms. Carrie Elizabeth De Jesus, BCE-Intern, (Delta Vector Control District), Rancho Santa Margarita, CA  USA.  Certified on 8/2/2016
  • Mr. Mark Janowiecki, BCE-Intern, (not provided), College Station, TX  USA.  Certified on 6/13/2016
  • Mr. Chong Chin Heo, BCE, (Texas A&M University), College Station, TX  USA.  Certified on 7/20/2016
  • Capt. Jordan McQuade Coburn, BCE, (United States Army), Killeen, TX  USA.  Certified on 6/27/2016
  • Mr. Travis J Gates, BCE, (ABC Home and Commercial), Lewisville, TX  USA.  Certified on 6/27/2016
  • Mr. Christopher A. Hohnholt, BCE, (NAVFAC ATLANTIC), Norfolk, VA  USA.  Certified on 6/13/2016
  • Dr. Bennett William Jordan, BCE, (Copesan Services, Inc.), Menomonee Falls, WI  USA.  Certified on 6/10/2016
  • Mr. Timothy McGonegal, BCE, (Scientific Coordination Inc.), Warrenton, VA  USA.  Certified on 5/15/2016
New ACE-Internationals:
  • Mr. Francis Aaron Soudant, ACE-I, (Abell Pest Controll), Etobicoke, ON  Canada.  Certified on 7/21/2016
  • Mr. Marcus F. Rezende, ACE-I, (Truly Nolen International), Orlando, FL  USA.  Certified on 7/18/2016
New ACEs:
  • Mr. Jonathan Roland Anderson, ACE, (Specialized Pest Control and Lawn Care), Hyde Park, UT  USA.  Certified on 8/12/2016
  • Mr. Pete Zimmermann, ACE, (Ecolab Pest Elimination), Spencer, IA  USA.  Certified on 8/11/2016
  • Mr. Joseph Adam Owens, ACE, (Bama Exterminating Company Inc.), Northport, AL  USA.  Certified on 8/4/2016
  • Mr. Andrew V. Mannino III, ACE, (Amco Ranger, Inc.), Saint Peters, MO  USA.  Certified on 7/26/2016
  • Mr. Derek Eugene Brigman, ACE, (Protex Lawn and Pest Control Inc.), Goldenrod, FL  USA.  Certified on 7/8/2016
  • Mr. Dominique Sauvage, ACE, (Copesan), Menomonee Falls, WI  USA.  Certified on 7/6/2016
  • Mr. Nathan Gary Goodson, ACE, (Ecolab), Albuquerque, NM  USA.  Certified on 6/29/2016
  • Mr. Adam Scott Vannest, ACE, (Northwest Exterminating), Marietta, GA  USA.  Certified on 6/20/2016
  • Mr. Todd L. Moeller, ACE, (Ecolab, Inc.), Round Rock, TX  USA.  Certified on 6/10/2016
  • Mr. H. Sam Kendrick, ACE, (Arrow Exterminators), Woodstock, GA  USA.  Certified on 6/6/2016
  • Mr. Daniel Rottler, ACE, (Rottler Pest & Lawn Solutions), Saint Louis, MO  USA.  Certified on 5/31/2016
  • Mr. Kyle A Bond, ACE, (Terminix - Owner), Kerrville, TX  USA.  Certified on 5/17/2016
  • Mr. Walter Carson, Jr., ACE, (Terminix), Kerrville, TX  USA.  Certified on 5/17/2016


Vector Control

Ever since the public first started talking about the Zika virus, people have begun to pay attention to something that those of us in the arthropod control and management industry have been watching for years.

An underutilized way to help control vector-borne diseases is to manage the vectors.

Aedes aegypti:
You may or may not do mosquito work, but you probably get mosquito questions from your customers. Many people tend to group all insects as pests and -- since you are who they think of for pest control -- you are apt to get the questions.  Yet mosquito work remains a very small part of most PMPs overall business mix. In a supplement to the magazine, PCT reported that while nearly half of all pest management firms do mosquito work, for 45% of them the total revenue earned is under $5,000.

So it pays to learn a little bit about this insect that is known as the world's most dangerous animal. Mosquito management has been in the news a lot recently, particularly controlling the Ae. ae. mosquito, which is known to carry dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and the Zika virus.

ESA's Executive Director C. David Gammel discusses the
importance of vector control during a March 2016
 
Aedes aegypti control summit in Brazil.
Too often the topic focuses on disease management and prevention. While this is an important aspect of the discussion, it does put us in a position of chasing symptoms. It is imperative that vector control becomes an increasingly large part of the search for solutions. In March 2016, ESA co-hosted a summit on controlling the Ae. ae. mosquito in the Americas. In the outcome statement, the attendees call for three actions that will help to turn the tide against the mosquito:
  1. Ensuring that those most affected by the mosquito receive accurate scientific knowledge on ways that they can help to control the insect.
  2. Funding the research needed to develop better tools and techniques for vector control.
  3. The vector control community must organize and speak in a unified way for us to speak locally and globally on the critical importance of vector control research and implementation. 
Relatedly:
  • USAID is funding $30 million in grants to fight the Zika virus, much of it going toward control and surveillance tactics.
  • The US Department of Health and Human Services recently shifted $81 million from other priorities to focus on Zika.
  • A spokesman for the American Mosquito Control Association is calling for a national initiative to make mosquito breeding socially unacceptable.
Ticks:
Image courtesy of CDC
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a ton of great resources on their site about ticks, tick-borne disease, prevention, and --of course-- Lyme disease. (Side note: It is properly called Lyme disease, not "Lyme's disease" and it is named after the town in Connecticut (you guessed it -- Lyme, Connecticut) where the disease was first described in the 1970's). Research shows that Lyme is spreading southward. The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), which is responsible for most cases of the disease, is now found in almost half of all counties in the United States. And while research has been promising for learning more about the tick, we still have a long ways to go. For now, prevention remains the number 1 tool for reducing Lyme. For more information on the latest research, see this link from EntomologyToday that discusses an Integrated Tick Management Symposium held by ESA, CDC, and the IPM Institute (May 2016).

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Please join ESA in congratulating these pest management professionals who recently obtained their ACE or BCE.

BCE or BCE-Intern:

  • Mr. Bryan J. Vaughan, BCE-Intern, (Loyal Termite and Pest Control), Henrico, VA  USA.  Certified on 4/25/2016
  • Mr. Gregory Dean Burroughs, BCE, (Terminix), Columbia, SC  USA.  Certified on 4/28/2016
  • Mr. Gary Frazier, BCE, (SC Johnson), Racine, WI  USA.  Certified on 3/29/2016

ACE or ACE-International:

  • Mr. Ashfaq Ahmad, ACE-I, (Cannon Services, Inc), Markham, ON  Canada.  Certified on 4/30/2016
  • Mr. William Kelly Ryan, ACE-I, (The Steritech Group), Milton, ON  Canada.  Certified on 3/15/2016
  • Mr. Richard L. Weisman, ACE, BCE, (Orkin Pest Control), Houston, TX  USA.  Certified on 4/20/2016
  • Mr. Jonathan Brent Shiver, ACE, (Trutech), Marietta, GA  USA.  Certified on 5/5/2016
  • Mr. Robert M Henry, ACE, (Orkin), Westminster, CO  USA.  Certified on 5/4/2016
  • Mr. William Ellis, ACE, (Orkin), Westminster, CO  USA.  Certified on 5/4/2016
  • Ms. Brandi Reid, ACE, (Bruce Terminix Company), Asheboro, NC  USA.  Certified on 4/29/2016
  • Mr. Robert Kretchmer, ACE, (Probest Pest Management), Queen Creek, AZ  USA.  Certified on 4/28/2016
  • Mr. Josh B Bingham, ACE, (orkin), West Valley City, UT  USA.  Certified on 4/26/2016
  • Mr. William Milton Schultz, Jr., ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Portage, MI  USA.  Certified on 4/22/2016
  • Mr. Blaine Edward Richardson, ACE, (Edge Pest Control), Orem, UT  USA.  Certified on 4/22/2016
  •  John W. Barnett, ACE, (Frontline Pest Professionals), Manassas, VA  USA.  Certified on 4/12/2016
  • Mr. John Giunta, ACE, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), West Bridgewater, MA  USA.  Certified on 4/8/2016
  • Mr. Kevin M. Ignaffo, ACE, (Craig Thomas Pest Control), Hyde Park, NY  USA.  Certified on 4/8/2016
  • Mr. Stephen C. Hamilton, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Pittsfield, MA  USA.  Certified on 4/8/2016
  • Mr. Mark Freeman, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Hingham, MA  USA.  Certified on 4/8/2016
  • Mr. Dwayne Hosek, ACE, (Worldwide Pest Control), San Antonio, TX  USA.  Certified on 4/6/2016
  • Mr. Kenneth Dale Robertson, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Newtown Square, PA  USA.  Certified on 4/6/2016
  • Mr. Terry W. Groft, Jr., ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Newtown Square, PA  USA.  Certified on 4/6/2016
  • Mr. Steven Daugherty, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), West Grove, PA  USA.  Certified on 4/6/2016
  • Mr. Darrell E. Nankivell, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Woodland Park, NJ  USA.  Certified on 4/6/2016
  • Mr. George Ryan Carosello, ACE, (Presto-X), Memphis, TN  USA.  Certified on 3/24/2016
  • Mr. Robert Chase Cherrington, ACE, (Family Pest Control), San Antonio, TX  USA.  Certified on 3/24/2016
  • Mr. Ian P. Adams, ACE, (Adams Pest Control of LR Inc), Little Rock, AR  USA.  Certified on 3/23/2016
  • Mr. Michael A Amante, ACE, (Mead Johnson Nutrition), Zeeland, MI  USA.  Certified on 3/21/2016
  • Ms. Debbra Ann Thompson, ACE, (Dependable Pest Solutions), Rochester, NH  USA.  Certified on 3/17/2016
  • Mr. Michael Geiman, ACE, (Truly Nolen Pest Prevention), Lexington, KY  USA.  Certified on 3/17/2016
  • Mr. Matthew DeBettencourt, ACE, (Minuteman Pest Control and Problem Wildlife), Northampton, MA  USA.  Certified on 3/17/2016
  • Mr. Jared DeBettencourt, ACE, (Minuteman Pest Control), Northampton, MA  USA.  Certified on 3/17/2016



Monday, April 4, 2016

Newly certified

Please join ESA in congratulating the latest list of individuals who have obtained their ACE, ACE-International, or BCE certification. They are:

BCE:
  • Mr. Brian Ellsworth, BCE, (Gemtek Pest Control Inc), Boise, ID  USA.  Certified on 2/11/2016
  • Mr. Stoney William Bachman, BCE, (Blackwater Consulting Services), Orangeburg, SC  USA.  Certified on 3/15/2016

 ACEs and ACE-International:
  • Mr. Marc Richard Charlton, ACE-I, (Abell Pest Control), Kitchener, ON  Canada.  Certified on
  • 2/11/2016
  • Mr. James K. Dienes, ACE, (Trius Pest Management), Boonton, NJ  USA.  Certified on 2/6/2016
  • Mr. Jonathan Schoppe, ACE, (Dial Pest Control Inc.), Roseland, NJ  USA.  Certified on 2/6/2016
  • Mr. Joshua A. Wilhelm, ACE, (Fumigation Service and Supply, Inc.), Westfield, IN  USA.  Certified on 2/12/2016
  • Mr. Frank Ellis, ACE, (Western Pest Services), Maple Shade, NJ  USA.  Certified on 2/15/2016
  • Mr. Michael Daniel Anderson, ACE, (not provided), Oceanside, CA  USA.  Certified on 2/22/2016
  • Mr. Jefferson A Rice, ACE, (Environmental Pest Mgmt Inc.), Indiana, PA  USA.  Certified on 2/25/2016
  • Mr. George Patrick Clemons, ACE, (George Washington University), Washington, DC  USA.  Certified on 2/27/2016
  • Mr. Jose Astrong Riano, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Lincolnton, NC  USA.  Certified on 2/29/2016
  • Mr. R. Brett Madden, Esq., ACE, (Alliance Commercial Pest Control, Inc.), Tinton Falls, NJ  USA.  Certified on 3/3/2016
  • Mr. Christopher August Davis, ACE, (Florida Pest Control), Gainesville, FL  USA.  Certified on 3/4/2016

Tuesday, March 29, 2016


This issue of Certified Science was emailed to all current ACEs and BCEs on December 15, 2015. A current issue will email this week and will post to the blog in about 8-12 weeks. To receive the current issue as it publishes, please consider becoming ACE or BCE certified. 


A Periodic E-mail Service to ACEs and Urban-Industrial BCEs The Entomological Society of America is the #1 source of scientific information for the entomologically-focused urban professional. This email is a service of the ESA for all ACEs and any BCEs who specialize in urban and industrial entomology. Certified Science is a summary of some recent articles in the ESA journals that relate to structural pest management and urban arthropod pests. The abstracts are freely available online for all articles, though access to the full text will generally require membership in the ESA. The following journals are included in this list:
Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #5 and #6
Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #5 and #6
Journal of Medical Entomology, Volume 52 #6
Journal of Insect Science, Volume 15 (October 1 – December 13, 2015)
EntomologyToday blog (posts between September 21 and December 13, 2015)
________________________________________
An Evaluation of Butterfly Gardens for Restoring Habitat for the Monarch Butterfly (Lepidoptera: Danaidae)
Authors:  Brian T. Cutting, Douglas W. Tallamy
Source: Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #5
Abstract: The eastern migratory monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus L.) population in North America hit record low numbers during the 2013–2014 overwintering season, prompting pleas by scientists and conservation groups to plant the butterfly’s milkweed host plants (Asclepias spp.) in residential areas. While planting butterfly gardens with host plants seems like an intuitive action, no previous study has directly compared.... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Effect of Lures and Colors on Capture of Lady Beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Tedders Pyramidal Traps
Authors:  E. A. Kemp, T. E. Cottrell
Source: Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #5
Abstract: Purposeful attraction and aggregation of adult Coccinellidae at target sites would be useful for sampling purposes and pest suppression. We field-tested 1) lures in yellow and black pyramidal traps and 2) pyramidal traps that had been painted one or two colors (without lures) to determine if lures or trap color affected capture of adult Coccinellidae. In only one experiment with lures did a single rate of limonene increase trap capture, whereas no other... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Induced Effects on Red Imported Fire Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Forager Size Ratios by Pseudacteon spp. (Diptera: Phoridae): Implications on Bait Size Selection
Authors:  J. J. Reed, R. T. Puckett, R. E. Gold
Source: Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #5
Abstract: Red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren, are adversely affected by phorid flies in the genus Pseudacteon by instigating defensive behaviors in their hosts, and in turn reducing the efficiency of S. invicta foraging. Multiple Pseudacteon species have been released in Texas, and research has been focused on the establishment and spread of these introduced biological control agents.... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Synergistic Trap Response of the False Stable Fly and Little House Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) to Acetic Acid and Ethanol, Two Principal Sugar Fermentation Volatiles
Authors:  Peter J. Landolt, Dong H. Cha, Richard S. Zack
Source: Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #5
Abstract: In an initial observation, large numbers of muscoid flies (Diptera) were captured as nontarget insects in traps baited with solutions of acetic acid plus ethanol. In subsequent field experiments, numbers of false stable fly Muscina stabulans (Fallén) and little house fly Fannia canicularis (L.) trapped with the combination of acetic acid plus ethanol were significantly higher than those trapped with either chemical alone, or in unbaited traps... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Sublethal Effect of Imidacloprid on Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Feeding, Digging, and Foraging Behavior
Authors:  Lei Wang, Ling Zeng, Jian Chen
Source: Environmental Entomology, Volume 44 #6
Abstract: There is increasing evidence that exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides at sublethal levels impairs colonies of honeybees and other pollinators. Recently, it was found that sublethal contamination with neonicotinoids also affect growth and behavior of ants. In this study, we exposed red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren, to sublethal dosages of dietary imidacloprid and investigated its effect on ant feeding, digging, and foraging behavior... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
The Potential of Bee-Generated Carbon Dioxide for Control of Varroa Mite (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) in Indoor Overwintering Honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Colonies
Authors:  Rassol Bahreini, Robert W. Currie
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #5
Abstract: The objective of this study was to manipulate ventilation rate to characterize interactions between stocks of honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) and ventilation setting on varroa mite (Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman) mortality in honey bee colonies kept indoors over winter. The first experiment used colonies established from stock selected locally for wintering performance under exposure to varroa (n = 6) and unselected bees (n = 6) to assess mite and bee mortality... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Field Trials With 0.5% Novaluron Insecticide Applied as a Bait to Control Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes sp. and Coptotermes formosanus [Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae]) on Structures
Authors:  T. C. Keefer, Robert T. Puckett, Ken. S. Brown, Roger E. Gold
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #5
Abstract: A field study was initiated in 2009 with 0.5% novaluron the BASF Advance Termite Bait System, which was 100% effective in controlling Reticulitermes sp. Holmgren and Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki infestations on 11 structures in the Texas City, TX area. Stations with inspection cartridges (cellulose tablets) and monitoring bases (southern yellow pine) and independent monitoring devices were installed in an alternating pattern around each structure and were inspected... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Impacts on Reticulitermes flavipes (Infraorder Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) by Chlorantraniliprole Applied to Soil Surrounding Established Tunnels
Authors:  B. L. Thorne, N. L. Breisch, C. W. Scherer
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #5
Abstract: Soil-applied liquid termiticides are the most common control measure for subterranean termites. Characteristics unique to insecticidal chemistries such as repellency, toxicity, and time between contact and mortality, influence the interaction of termites with treated soil and overall treatment success. Two different treated-tunnel bioassays were used to evaluate the behavioral impacts and mortality of termites... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Effects of Oral Exposure to Fungicides on Honey Bee Nutrition and Virus Levels
Authors:  Gloria Degrandi-Hoffman, Yanping Chen, Emily Watkins Dejong, Mona L. Chambers, Geoffrey Hidalgo
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #6
Abstract: Sublethal exposure to fungicides can affect honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) in ways that resemble malnutrition. These include reduced brood rearing, queen loss, and increased pathogen levels. We examined the effects of oral exposure to the fungicides boscalid and pyraclostrobin on factors affecting colony nutrition and immune function including pollen consumption, protein digestion, hemolymph protein titers, and changes in virus levels. Because the fungicides are respiratory inhibitors... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Elimination of the Mound-Building Termite, Nasutitermes exitiosus (Isoptera: Termitidae) in South-Eastern Australia Using Bistrifluron Bait
Authors:  Garry A. Webb, Charles Mcclintock
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #6
Abstract: Bistrifluron, a benzoylphenylurea compound, was evaluated for efficacy against Nasutitermes exitiosus (Hill), a mound-building species in southern Australia. Bistrifluron bait (trade name Xterm) was delivered as containerized pellets inserted into plastic feeding stations implanted in the sides of mounds—60 g for bistrifluron bait-treated mounds and 120 g of blank bait for untreated mounds. Termites actively tunneled in the gaps between pellets and removed bait from the canisters... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Comparison of Field and Laboratory-Based Tests for Behavioral Response of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) to Repellents
Authors:  Sunaiyana Sathantriphop, Monthathip Kongmee, Krajana Tainchum, Kornwika Suwansirisilp, Unchalee Sanguanpong, Michael J. Bangs, Theeraphap Chareonviriyaphap
Source: Journal of Economic Entomology, Volume 108 #6
Abstract: The repellent and irritant effects of three essential oils—clove, hairy basil, and sweet basil—were compared using an excito-repellency test system against an insecticide-resistant strain of Aedes aegypti (L.) females from Pu Teuy, Kanchanaburi Province. DEET was used as the comparison standard compound. Tests were conducted under field and controlled laboratory conditions. The most marked repellent effect (spatial noncontact assay) among the three test essential oils was exhibited by... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Seasonal Activity, Density, and Collection Efficiency of the Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis) (Acari: Ixodidae) in Mid-Western Pennsylvania
Authors:  T. W. Simmons, J. Shea, M. A. Myers-Claypole, R. Kruise, M. L. Hutchinson
Source: Journal of Medical Entomology, Volume 52 #6
Abstract: Although Pennsylvania has recently reported the greatest number of Lyme disease cases in the United States, with the largest increase for PA occurring in its western region, the population biology of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis Say) has not been adequately characterized in western PA. We studied the seasonal activity of host-seeking I. scapularis larvae, nymphs, and adults in mid-western PA over the course of a year, including a severe winter... (Full abstract)  
________________________________________
Behavioral Response of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Larvae to Synthetic and Natural Attractants and Repellents
Authors:  Paula V. Gonzalez, Paola A. González Audino, Héctor M. Masuh
Source: Journal of Medical Entomology, Volume 52 #6
Abstract: Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) is the key vector of three important arboviral diseases: dengue, yellow fever, and chikungunya. Immature stages of this species inhabit human-made containers placed in residential landscapes. In this study, we evaluated a few compounds in a sensitive behavioral assay with Ae. aegypti larvae. The orientation of larvae to different compounds was surveyed using a performance index.... (Full abstract)  
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The Efficacy of Some Commercially Available Insect Repellents for Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) and Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors:  Stacy D. Rodriguez, Lisa L. Drake, David P. Price, John I. Hammond, Immo A. Hansen
Source: Journal of Insect Science, Volume 15
Abstract: Reducing the number of host-vector interactions is an effective way to reduce the spread of vector-borne diseases. Repellents are widely used to protect humans from a variety of protozoans, viruses, and nematodes. DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), a safe and effective repellent, was developed during World War II. Fear of possible side effects of DEET has created a large market for “natural” DEET-free repellents... (Full abstract)  
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Acute Toxicity and Sublethal Effects of Botanical Insecticides to Honey Bees
Authors:  Vânia M. Xavier, Dejair Message, Marcelo C. Picanço, Mateus Chediak, Paulo A. Santana Júnior, Rodrigo S. Ramos, Júlio C. Martins
Source: Journal of Insect Science, Volume 15
Abstract: Apis mellifera L. is the main pollinator of cultivated plants. With the increased emphasis on organic agriculture, the use of botanical insecticides has also increased. However, the effects of these products on bees remain to be determined. In this study, we aimed at assessing the acute toxicity and sublethal behavioral effects of botanical insecticides such as andiroba oil, citronella oil, eucalyptus oil, garlic extract, neem oil, and rotenone on honey bees, A. mellifera... (Full abstract)  
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And, finally, some recent posts from ESA’s popular site, EntomologyToday:
Higher Temperatures Impair Efficacy of Permethrin Insecticide (link)
A Tick that Feeds on Birds May Increase the Range of Lyme Disease (link)
Do Scorpions, Spiders, and Insects Make Good Pets? (link)
Thirty-three Cases of Dengue Fever on Hawaii Island (link)
Study Finds Oil-Based Pesticides Most Effective at Killing Contents of Brown Widow Egg Sacs (link)
Study Compares “Natural” Mosquito Repellents to DEET (link)
Four Cases of Human Plague Confirmed in New Mexico (link)

Saturday, February 20, 2016

New ACEs and BCEs

Please help ESA congratulate these new BCEs and ACEs.

BCEs:

  • Ms. Anna I. Getchell, BCE, (McCloud Services), South Elgin, IL  USA.  Certified on 2/4/2016
  • Mr. David Joseph Moore II, BCE, (Dodson Pest Management), Lynchburg, VA  USA.  Certified on 2/4/2016
  • Ms. Kimberly Michele Engler, BCE, (ABC Home and Commercial Services), New Braunfels, TX  USA.  Certified on 2/1/2016

  • ACEs:

  • Mr. Herlindo Villa, ACE, (Cragoe Pest Services), Thousand Oaks, CA  USA.  Certified on 2/5/2016
  • Dr. Ross Halliday, BCE, (not provided), Edmonds, WA  USA.  Certified on 2/2/2016
  • Mr. Larry C. Bragg, ACE, (Clark Pest Control), Lodi, CA  USA.  Certified on 2/1/2016
  • Mr. Keith Simmons, Jr., ACE, (J.C. EHRLICH), Allentown, PA  USA.  Certified on 1/29/2016
  • Mr. David Scott Knick, ACE, (Terminix Service Inc), Columbia, SC  USA.  Certified on 1/21/2016
  • Mr. Gifford L. Bott, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), West Valley City, UT  USA.  Certified on 1/20/2016
  • Mr. Neal Keith Blackwell, ACE, (Blades of Green), Edgewater, MD  USA.  Certified on 1/19/2016
  • Mr. Gregg A. Myett, ACE, (Burgess Pest Management), W Bridgewater, MA  USA.  Certified on 12/7/2015
  • Mr. Wayne A Holliday, ACE, (PestMaster Services of Lake City), Lake City, FL  USA.  Certified on 12/3/2015


  • Wednesday, January 20, 2016

    New ACEs and BCEs - first of 2016

    Please help us to congratulate these new BCEs and ACEs!


    • Ms. Alix Briana Whitener, BCE-Intern, (Washington State University), Wenatchee, WA  USA.  Certified on 12/16/2015
    • Dr. Kristen Van Den Meiracker, BCE, (not provided), Travelers Rest, SC  USA.  Certified on 1/4/2016
    • Dr. Marisol Quintanilla-Tornel, BCE, (University of Hawaii), Honolulu, HI  USA.  Certified on 12/14/2015
    • Mr. Chad N. Grosklags, ACE, (U-Spray Inc), Lilburn, GA  USA.  Certified on 1/13/2016
    • Mr. Mark B Davidson, ACE, (Pestech Exterminating Inc), Liberty, NY  USA.  Certified on 1/13/2016
    • Mr. Billie G. Strickland, ACE, (Allgood Pest Solutions), Rincon, GA  USA.  Certified on 1/13/2016
    • Mr. Dion L Lerman, ACE, (PA IPM Program/ Penn State), Philadelphia, PA  USA.  Certified on 1/13/2016
    • Mr. David Michael Lofquist, ACE, (Arrow Exterminators), Woodstock, GA  USA.  Certified on 1/13/2016
    • Mr. Dannis S. Warf, ACE, (Royal Pest Solutions), New Castle, DE  USA.  Certified on 1/9/2016
    • Mr. GEORGE G. WYNNE III, ACE, (ABC Home & Commercial Services), Austin, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Colby Randal McCarty, ACE, (ABC Home and Commercial Services), Cedar Park, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Jason Wolfington, ACE, (ABC Home and Commercial Services), College Station, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Wilmer Bracey Furr, ACE, (EnviroCon Termite and Pest), Hockley, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Daren Guy Horton, ACE, (Gecko Pest Control LLC), Marshall, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Robert D. McQueen, Jr., ACE, (Integrated Pest Management Inc.), Richmond, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. Gregory Cowan, Jr, ACE, (A.B.C Home & Commercial Services), Austin, TX  USA.  Certified on 1/7/2016
    • Mr. James E Buick, ACE, (Orkin Pest Control), Amherst, NY  USA.  Certified on 12/18/2015
    • Mr. William McVicker, ACE, (American Pest), Fulton, MD  USA.  Certified on 12/16/2015
    • Mr. Benjamin Richard Conaway, ACE, (American Pest), Fulton, MD  USA.  Certified on 12/16/2015


    Wednesday, January 6, 2016

    Build a better BCE

    We are revising the BCE Core Exam. And we need your help.

    A certification program like BCE (or ACE) should accurately reflect the work that professionals do. Simple, right?  That is until you get into a complex field like entomology. The Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) program is designed for all degreed-entomologists whether they are working in crops, forensics, structural control, a laboratory, or elsewhere.  The BCE Core Exam has to be applicable to every entomologist.

    A team of volunteers has developed a new outline for the Core Exam and we want to validate it against what YOU do. If you are working as an entomologist, whether or not you are currently certified by ESA, please take our Job Task Analysis survey.

    We'll pull two completed random responses by the deadline of January 19th and award two $50 American Express gift cards.

    Click here to take the survey.