The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recently released its spring/summer Bug Barometer which forecasts pest insect activity levels based on weather patterns. The forecast points out to facility and property managers the need to be proactive when it comes to preventive pest measures.
“Mosquitoes, ants and other pests will be out in full force this spring and summer,” said Jim Fredericks, Ph.D., chief entomologist and vice president of technical and regulatory affairs for the NPMA. “With growing concern over infectious diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus and more, diligent prevention and awareness are necessary.”
The Bug Barometer’s findings predict the following pest activity levels:
Pacific Northwest & Intermountain
“The region — including parts of the Rocky Mountains — experienced heavy snowfall in certain areas from Winter Storm Iras in January. Yet, the upcoming warmer and drier spring conditions may cause ant populations to be even higher than previous years, as they seek out sources of water and food indoors.”
West Coast
“Winter brought severe and unusual weather, including extreme flooding, resulting in mudslides and even avalanches. The subsequent warmer, wetter spring weather may lead to higher than normal flying pest populations, including mosquitoes and stinging insects that will continue through the summer months. Increased West Coast rainfall may drive cockroaches and other crawling pests indoors.”
To stay one step ahead of the pests that threaten your commercial facility, contact Sprague Pest Solutions to design and implement an integrated pest management program that will keep your restaurant, hotel or food processing operation pest-free.