BugBytes Vol. 7 Issue 10

December 12, 2023

Posted By: Lydia Crabtree in Bug Bytes,

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December 12, 2023 | Vol. 7 Issue 10

EPA Rodenticide
Update

EPA Releases Draft Biological Evaluation (BE) on Rodenticides
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On Friday, EPA published its Draft Biological Evaluation (BE) on Rodenticides, which is part of the registration review process, but is NOT the Agency's Interim Decision, which we still expect in mid-late summer of 2024. Included in the draft BE are a set of geographically-specific mitigation measures for rodenticides, which NPMA is currently reviewing and working with the Agency and other stakeholders to ensure we have an accurate read on what is included in the draft BE.

Based off our current read, the Agency has proposed the below mitigation measures, which would only apply to the ranges of the 73 listed species and 4 critical habitats that EPA predicted future jeopardy/adverse modification for:

"Restricting bait station placement to within five feet of man-made structures in areas with listed mammals that are small enough to enter bait stations. This mitigation measure would reduce the likelihood that bait stations will be placed in the species habitat. This mitigation measure is intended to reduce the potential for primary exposure."
1. NPMA will be looking into which listed mammals are small enough to enter bait stations.
"Mandatory carcass searches and carcass disposal for SGAR products applied in structural use sites. This mitigation measure is intended to reduce the potential for secondary exposure."
1. NPMA will be requesting that the agency set parameters around carcass searches (similar to our comments on the PID)

"Prohibiting use in areas or at times of the year when listed secondary consumers might be exposed (i.e., if species are active or in the area). FWS determined this measure was needed to protect listed species in the previous biological opinions for the rodenticide products Rozol Prairie Dog Bait and Kaput-D Prairie Dog Bait. This measure would reduce exposure to predators and scavengers and is intended to reduce the potential for secondary exposure."
1. NPMA will be looking into the impact that this mitigation measure will have on our members.

To see these species' ranges and critical habitats, please review pages 99-101 of the Draft Biological Evaluation on Rodenticides.

In the coming week(s)…

NPMA will be sharing a more in-depth analysis of the Draft BE with the Public Policy Committee and individuals signed up for "Policy in Progress," the Public Policy Team's weekly email.
NPMA will be requesting a 60-day extension to the public comment period, which is currently expected to close on January 29^th.
NPMA will be fine-tuning our strategy and seeking out opportunities to collaborate on a unified response with other stakeholders.

PestVet's Coat Drive Wraps Up

The pictures tell the tale, 5,500 coats were processed on Thursday, December 7, 2023. Below you can see various industry volunteers sorting and organizing mounds of children and adult coats for Veterans and their families who have need. This real-world impact will continue with toasty Vets and their families this Winter and into future Winters. See the wrap-up video here!

Please send positive thoughts and prayers to Richard Isdell who was involved in a serious motorcycle accident. Hal Coleman also found his way into and back out of the hospital according to his Facebook. GPCA are holding them both in our prayers with well wishes.

Georgia Pest Control Association's Athens Winter Conference will be held on Tuesday, January 9th; Wednesday, January 10th; and Thursday, January 11, 2024.

Hotel Information

The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel SOLD OUT!

Alternative Hotel Available
Springhill Suites

220 South Hull Street, Athens Ga 30605

Below is the online booking link. Guests can also call 706-850-2072 and use code PCC for reservations.

Book your group rate for the Georgia Pest Control Winter Conference

If you get a room at the Springhill Suites we will provide parking passes to park at the UGA Continuing Education and Hotel parking deck. Parking Passes are only permitted for those staying at the Springhill Suites.

Download Updated Schedule HERE

Sponsoring and Exhibiting

If you are interested in exhibiting or sponsoring this event please reach out to Regina Robuck at regina@gpca.org. She will be happy to work with you on the package that works best for you.

Raffle

We are selling raffle tickets to win the following prize:

Traeger Pro 780 Pellet Grill

Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10. Drawing will be at lunch on the final day of the conference; however, you do not need to be present to win.

Thank you to Oldham Chemicals for providing the prize.

If you are planning to attend NPMA’s Legislative Day please email kelly@gpca.org and let her know you plan to attend. There will be a planning call for Georgia visits that we will include you in, if you let us know one month prior to the event.