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 2nd Street Bayonne, NJ 07002
AP&G Co./ Catchmaster, Inc.
djohnson@catchmasterpro.com
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.
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.
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:
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