California Continues Mandate for More Integrated Pest Management
Scott McKeon, McKeon & Company Pest Management, Inc.
Pest control. Pest management. Pest elimination. Any way you say it, most property owners or homeowners associations hope to put some measures in place and not have to think about them again. Unfortunately, big or small, pests eventually come knocking and property value depends on you keeping them under control. Conventional pest control relies predominately on traditional pesticides and rodenticides, hoping to deter pests from frequenting common areas. However, recent laws are restricting some of these basic practices and forcing serviceproviders to adoptintegratedpestmanagement measures more fully into their offering.
The California Ecosystems Protections Act of 2023 took effect January 1st and places a suspension on diphacinone, a first- generation anticoagulant rat poison developed before 1970. While primarily used to kill rats, squirrels, and other rodents, diphacinone also affects larger animals up the food chain. For homeowners, farmers, and other individuals, this will mean that some options at the store will change. For HOAs andpropertymanagementgroups, this is another meaningful shift in how pest management is handled by association contractors.
Homeowners associations play a significant role in pest management within residential communities. While the focus is typically on maintaining a clean, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environment for residents, any pest control measures implementedbyHOAsshouldprioritizethe protection of residents and the environment. By implementing best practices beyond basic traps, it becomes easier to catch and resolve potential problems early.
Routine Inspections
Did you know that within one year, a rat population can swell from 2 to 1,250? Or that fleas can lay up to 50 eggs each
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day, and termites up to 100? HOAs should conduct regular inspectionsofcommonareas,sharedspaces, andother association-maintained areas to identify and address potential pest problems. Early detection allows for prompt intervention before infestations become severe.
Landscaping Practices
Proper landscaping practices can contribute to pest prevention. HOAs may implement landscaping measures that reduce pest habitats and promote a healthy outdoor environment. This includes regular maintenance, proper drainage, and selecting plants that are less attractive to pests. Some of the simplest choices that can help are pruning frequency, mulch choices, and clearing stagnant water.
Waste Management
Effectivewaste management is crucialinpreventingpest infestations. In addition to local municipal requirements, HOAs may establish guidelines for residents to properly dispose of trash and recyclables, ensuring that waste containers aresealedand kept in designated areas. Ensuring these guidelines and standards are met by regularly inspecting dumping areas can help get ahead of any potential issues.
Working with Residents
Open communication is essential. By informing residents about scheduled pest control activities, offering guidelines forresidentstoreportpestissues, andencouraging a collaborative effort in maintaining a pest-free community, pest management becomes easier. Providing educational materialsororganizingworkshops to inform residents aboutcommonpests,preventivemeasures, andthe importance of individual responsibility in maintaining a pest-
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