- Decatur, Monday - Oct 6, 1-5pm
- Bessemer, Tuesday - Oct 7, 1-5pm
- Montgomery, Wednesday - Oct 8, 1-5pm
- Enterprise, Thursday - Oct 9, 1-5pm
- Mobile, Friday - Oct 10, 8-12noon
Monday, October 6
Magnolia Room
216 Moulton St E, Decatur, AL 35601
Registration & Check-In: 12:30-1pm
Schedule
1-2pm
Session 1, Subterranean Termite Control 101: Building on a solid foundation
Description
This one-hour presentation will discuss techniques associated with inspecting structures (20 mins), proper diagramming and documentation (20 mins), and common mistakes associated with treating structures for subterranean termites.
Outline
- Performing inspections
- Identifying signs of subterranean termites
- Inspection equipment
- Documenting (diagrams, calculations, renewal inspections)
- Sample treatment scenarios
Donny Oswalt, PhD, Guntersville, Alabama
Dr. Oswalt received his bachelor’s degree in Integrated Pest Management from Auburn University in 1993; his master’s degree in entomology from Auburn University in 1996 and his Ph.D. in entomology from Clemson in 2007. He worked as a pest control and termite technician early in his career and has spent the last 14 years’ operating his family run pest control business, The Bug Doctor. In 2020, he started Donny Oswalt Consulting Service which specializes in urban and structural pest management with emphasis in the areas of technical services, training, litigation support, wood destroying organism inspections, and the development and auditing of pest management programs for food processing, healthcare, commercial, and government facilities.
2-3pm
Session 2, Integrated Mosquito Management
Description
Integrated Mosquito Management provides a comprehensive overview of mosquito biology and distribution, then introduces non-chemical and chemical control methods—including larviciding, adulticiding, and barrier treatments. Attendees will learn how to educate customers, manage mosquito populations responsibly, and implement effective, science-based solutions for long-term mosquito control. Recommendations and discussion will be included.
Outline
- Introduction and mosquito facts
- Mosquito Biology
- Life Cycle
- Species
- Mosquito distribution
- Integrated Mosquito Control
- Customer education and non-chemical control
- PMP mosquito management
- Larviciding
- Adulticiding
- Barrier treatments
- Wide-area treatments
- Larvicide Stations
- Recommendations
- Questions and Discussion
Patrick F. Callahan
Mr. Callahan has over 40 years of experience in the US Agrochemical Industry. He has worked for several manufacturers including, Roussel (Which has become Envu), Cheminova (now part of FMC), LG Chemical and Pelsis. Patrick was President of Speckoz, the most successful Distribution Cooperative in the United States Professional markets. He has consulted with many more manufacturers, distributors and PMPs while running his own businesses both C3 Group and most recently, Hugh Kendoit Emporium, LLC. With his current role as Chief Success Planner for Hugh Kendoit Emporium, Patrick is collaborating with Patrick Ryan at PDM and helping several clients, including Thermacell Pro, Birchmeier, Pro-Pell, Flock Free, Pelgar, Petslandia gain market acceptance. Insects Limited is one of the most recent among the manufacturers who seek Mr. Callahan’s expertise. Mr. Callahan earned his dual major degree—B.S. in Biology and Secondary Education from St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, NJ and his M.S. in Zoology from Rutgers University. He has taught at the Secondary School level and the University level and has provided hundreds of CEU classes across the country.
3-4pm
Session 3, Rodent Pest Management
Description
Rodent Pest Management covers the health risks and property damage caused by rodents, emphasizing diseases like hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis. The course details rodent identification by physical features, eating habits, life cycle, behavior, and sensory abilities. Participants will learn effective rodent control strategies focusing on thorough inspection goals, exclusion techniques, and key areas to target. Technological control methods are explored, including types of rodenticides, baiting strategies for both indoor and outdoor use, and trapping devices. This comprehensive overview equips pest management professionals to safely and effectively manage rodent populations and minimize disease risks.
Outline
- Disease
- Brief description of the diseases carried/caused by rodents
- Damage
- Brief description of different types of damages caused by rodents.
- Rodent Identification
- Covers physical description, Eating Habits, Life Cycle, Behavioral Tendencies, Rodent Senses.
- Conducting Proper Rodent Control
- Covers the Inspection goals and techniques, Exclusion tips and areas of focus,
- Rodent Control Technologies
- Types of rodenticides and how they act on the rodents, as well as baiting strategies (both indoor and outdoor), description of devices for trapping as well as strategies.
Brandon Sartain
Brandon is the Southeastern Senior Technical Sales Representative for Bell Laboratories, covering Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. He Graduated from Carson-Newman University in East Tennessee where he played Football and is a member of the Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity. Brandon started in the industry with Bell in 2018 and has developed a passion for solving tough rodent infestations and helping Pest Control Operators be better at their jobs every day!
4-5pm
Session 4, Successful Ant Control
Description
Successful Ant Control provides a practical overview of common ant species, their biology, identification, and impact. Learn to differentiate ant species, select and apply effective chemical and non-chemical control strategies, and integrate best practices for homes, businesses, and agricultural settings. The course emphasizes safety, environmental impact, compliance, and long-term prevention.
Outline
- Introduction to Ant Control
- Importance of Ant Control
- Overview of Common Ant Species
- Economic and Health Impacts of Ant Infestations
- Understanding Ant Behavior and Biology
- Ant Colony Structure and Behavior
- Ant Life Cycle
- Factors Influencing Ant Infestations
- Identification of Ant Species
- Visual Identification Techniques
- Differentiating Between Common Ant Species
- Importance of Accurate Species Identification
- Ant Control Methods
- Chemical Control Methods
- Insecticide Selection and Application
- Understanding Insecticide Resistance
- Non-Chemical Control Methods
- Physical and Mechanical Control
- Biological Control
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approaches
- Chemical Control Methods
- Ant Control in Different Environments
- Residential Ant Control
- Commercial and Industrial Ant Control
- Agricultural Ant Control
- Environmental and Safety Considerations
- Environmental Impact of Ant Control Methods
- Safety Precautions for Ant Control Applications
- Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices
- Monitoring and Prevention
- Ant Infestation Monitoring Techniques
- Developing Effective Ant Prevention Strategies
- Long-Term Management of Ant Infestations
Rick Anglian, Syngenta
Rick is the Southeastern Territory Manager for Syngenta, overseeing operations across Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and the Florida Panhandle. A proud U.S. Army veteran with 12 years of service, Rick began his pest control career in 2014 as a Termite Technician and advanced to Director of Sales, where he built and managed high-performing teams. Joining Syngenta in August 2024, he brings extensive industry expertise, strategic leadership, and a passion for innovation. Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Business Administration. As Co-Chair of Georgia PestVets, Rick is also dedicated to supporting military veterans in the pest control industry.
Tuesday, October 7
Bessemer Civic Center
1130 9th Ave SW
Bessemer, Alabama 35022
Registration & Check-In: 12:30-1pm
1-2pm
Session 1, Termite Control Essential
Description
This session covers essential techniques for termite control, including a 20-minute overview of structural inspections, 20 minutes dedicated to accurate diagramming and thorough documentation, and a discussion of frequent pitfalls encountered during subterranean termite treatments.
Outline
- Conducting thorough termite inspections
- Recognizing key signs of subterranean termite activity
- Essential inspection tools and equipment
- Proper documentation practices: diagrams, calculations, and scheduling follow-up inspections
- Real-world treatment case studies and best practice examples
Presenter TBD
2-3pm
Session 2, Occasional Invaders
Description
Occasional Invaders—Including Carpet Beetles explores why nuisance pests like stink bugs, kudzu bugs, ants, silverfish, and rodents enter structures. The session covers identifying contributing conditions, highlights key invaders, and examines both non-chemical strategies—such as exclusion and habitat modification—and chemical solutions including baiting and integrated treatments. Practical guidance is provided for monitoring, prevention, and effective management indoors and outdoors.
Outline
- Where are these bugs coming from
- Contributing conditions
- Occasional Invaders- Storming the Castle
- Stink bugs, Kudzu bugs, Asian Lady Beetles, Ants, Peridomestic roaches, silverfish, Crickets, Centipedes, Millipedes, Rats, Mice, and Carpet Beetles
- Ants, Stink Bugs, Kudzu Bugs
- Non-Chemical Control Measures
- Habitat Modification
- Exclusion/Proofing
- Chemical Control Measures— Baiting, Monitoring, Application
- Insecticides—Repellent and nonrepellent
- Baits and granules
- Integrated approach
- Indoors and Outside
- Treating active Infestations
Patrick F. Callahan
Mr. Callahan has over 40 years of experience in the US Agrochemical Industry. He has worked for several manufacturers including, Roussel (Which has become Envu), Cheminova (now part of FMC), LG Chemical and Pelsis. Patrick was President of Speckoz, the most successful Distribution Cooperative in the United States Professional markets. He has consulted with many more manufacturers, distributors and PMPs while running his own businesses both C3 Group and most recently, Hugh Kendoit Emporium, LLC. With his current role as Chief Success Planner for Hugh Kendoit Emporium, Patrick is collaborating with Patrick Ryan at PDM and helping several clients, including Thermacell Pro, Birchmeier, Pro-Pell, Flock Free, Pelgar, Petslandia gain market acceptance. Insects Limited is one of the most recent among the manufacturers who seek Mr. Callahan’s expertise. Mr. Callahan earned his dual major degree—B.S. in Biology and Secondary Education from St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, NJ and his M.S. in Zoology from Rutgers University. He has taught at the Secondary School level and the University level and has provided hundreds of CEU classes across the country.
3-4pm
Session 3, Rodent Pest Management
Description
Rodent inspections are critical for early detection and prevention of infestations that cause structural damage and spread diseases like hantavirus and salmonellosis. This course covers target rodent species, their behavior, and the types of damage they cause. Participants will learn inspection goals and techniques focusing on identifying entry points, nesting sites, and food sources. The program emphasizes exclusion methods and key areas to secure. Finally, the course guides translating inspection findings into effective, customized rodent control programs, ensuring long-term pest management success and protecting health and property.
Outline
- Target Species
- Brief overview of the species we are inspecting for in a rodent inspection
- Damage
- Brief description and examples of different types of damages caused by rodents
- Conducting Proper Rodent Control
- Covers the Inspection goals and techniques, Exclusion tips and areas of focus
- What comes next?
- What information did we gather during the inspection and how do we translate that into an effective rodent control program
Brandon Sartain
Brandon is the Southeastern Senior Technical Sales Representative for Bell Laboratories, covering Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. He Graduated from Carson-Newman University in East Tennessee where he played Football and is a member of the Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity. Brandon started in the industry with Bell in 2018 and has developed a passion for solving tough rodent infestations and helping Pest Control Operators be better at their jobs every day!
4-5pm
Session 4, Ant Management & Fire Ants
Description
Ant Management & Fire Ants covers the essential history and significance of ants, inspection tips, species identification—including one and two node ants—and fire ant biology, life stages, and impact. Learn where and how to inspect, how to recognize key ant traits, and best practices for controlling ants, including broadcast baits, sprays, gels, and bait stations. The session ends with practical recommendations for professional management in diverse situations and addresses questions for lasting, safe ant and fire ant control.
Outline
- Introduction Importance and history of ants
- Inspection
- Seek customer input
- Tips and areas to look
- Identification
- Tools and resources
- Ant body parts
- Classification
- One Node
- Two Node
- Fire Ants
- History and Range
- Life Stages
- Reproduction
- Mating
- Post Mating
- Mound and Habitat
- Food
- Medical Impact
- Economic Impact
- Recommendation
- PMP ant control measures
- Recommended Methods
- Broadcast baits
- Sprays
- Gel Bait
- Bait Stations
- Questions and Discussion
Keith Miller, Envu Professional Pest Management
Keith is the southeast Area Sales Manager for Envu Professional Pest Management. He covers Alabama, North Georgia, and South Mississippi. Keith has been with Envu 18 years, 13 in the Animal Health Division. Prior to Envu he worked for DVM Pharmaceuticals. Keith is 1993 graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. In his time away work from he likes to hunt, fish, golf and spend time with his wife and children.
Wednesday, October 8
Alabama Department of Agriculture Auditorium
1445 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36107
Registration & Check-In: 12:30-1pm
1-2pm
Session 1, Termite Detection and Control: A Comprehensive Guide for Professionals
Description
This presentation provides a comprehensive guide to termite inspection and control. It covers termite biology, life stages, colony behavior, and the differences between termites and ants. Attendees will learn effective inspection techniques, including what to look for indoors and outdoors, and tips for gathering customer input. The session also reviews the history of termite treatments, distribution areas, and essential tools and equipment for inspections. Practical recommendations and a Q&A session will help pest management professionals enhance their termite detection and management skills for better service and results.
Outline
- Introduction
- About termites and brief history
- Treatment history
- Distribution area
- Termite v. Ant
- Biology
- Life stages
- Colony life
- Inspections
- Equipment
- Tools and uses
- The Inspection
- Where to start
- What to ask
- What to look for inside and out
- Equipment
- Questions and Discussion
Keith Miller, Envu Professional Pest Management
Keith is the southeast Area Sales Manager for Envu Professional Pest Management. He covers Alabama, North Georgia, and South Mississippi. Keith has been with Envu 18 years, 13 in the Animal Health Division. Prior to Envu he worked for DVM Pharmaceuticals. Keith is 1993 graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. In his time away work from he likes to hunt, fish, golf and spend time with his wife and children.
2-3pm
Session 2, Effective Use of Pheromones and Attractants
Description
This comprehensive presentation delves into the intricate world of pheromones and attractants, focusing on their vital role in the stored product industry. By exploring the various types of semiochemicals—specifically pheromones and kairomones—attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how these chemical signals can be strategically employed for pest management. The session highlights the importance of species identification for effective pheromone lure selection and outlines the benefits of pheromone monitoring in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Through engaging case studies, attendees will learn how pheromone monitoring has successfully addressed challenging pest issues. Additionally, the presentation will cover innovative techniques like mating disruption, emphasizing their significance in maintaining product integrity and enhancing brand reputation.
Outline
- Introduction to Pheromones and Attractants
- Definition of pheromones
- Overview of the semiochemical family
- Pheromones vs. kairomones
- Other types of semiochemicals
- Pheromones in the Stored Product Industry
- Types of pheromones
- Sex pheromones
- Aggregation pheromones
- Role of kairomones in enhancing pheromone attractiveness
- Types of pheromones
- Importance of Species Identification
- Quick overview of stored product insect species
- Implications for pheromone lure selection
- Case study: Successful species identification and pheromone use
- Pheromone Monitoring as a Tool for IPM
- Benefits of pheromone monitoring
- Outbreak detection
- Threshold establishment
- Density estimation
- Pinpointing infestations
- Case studies: Effective pheromone monitoring programs
- Benefits of pheromone monitoring
- Types of Pheromone Lures and Traps
- Overview of lure and trap types
- Innovations in remote pheromone monitoring
- Mating Disruption Techniques
- Mechanism of mating disruption
- Application for food moth population management
- Case study: Mating disruption success story
- Integrating Pheromone Data into IPM Programs
- Using pheromone monitoring data for IPM decision-making
- Enhancing product safety and brand integrity through effective pest management
- Conclusion
- Recap of key points
- Call to action for implementing pheromone strategies in stored product management
- Q&A Session
Patrick F. Callahan
Mr. Callahan has over 40 years of experience in the US Agrochemical Industry. He has worked for several manufacturers including, Roussel (Which has become Envu), Cheminova (now part of FMC), LG Chemical and Pelsis. Patrick was President of Speckoz, the most successful Distribution Cooperative in the United States Professional markets. He has consulted with many more manufacturers, distributors and PMPs while running his own businesses both C3 Group and most recently, Hugh Kendoit Emporium, LLC. With his current role as Chief Success Planner for Hugh Kendoit Emporium, Patrick is collaborating with Patrick Ryan at PDM and helping several clients, including Thermacell Pro, Birchmeier, Pro-Pell, Flock Free, Pelgar, Petslandia gain market acceptance. Insects Limited is one of the most recent among the manufacturers who seek Mr. Callahan’s expertise. Mr. Callahan earned his dual major degree—B.S. in Biology and Secondary Education from St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, NJ and his M.S. in Zoology from Rutgers University. He has taught at the Secondary School level and the University level and has provided hundreds of CEU classes across the country.
3-4pm
Session 3, Spiders – Helpful Things to Know
Description
Spiders are a frustrating and challenging pest to control that requires an understanding of the live cycle and habitat range. Misconceptions exist that tend to lead to control issues. It is helpful to understand spider behavior to communicate with homeowners and to alleviate some frustrations for technicians. Technicians need to understand that a long-term spider management strategy is most effective.
Outline
- Introduction
- Importance
- Fear
- Challenging Misconceptions
- Life Cycle & Behavior
- Culture of Danger
- Common Spiders & Range
- Common Around House
- Health Concern Species
- Control Strategies (Prevention, Sanitation, Mechanical)
- Sanitation
- Exclusion
- Treatment Strategies (Applications)
- Techniques
- Locations
- Treatment Failures (recognition of why)
- Formulations & Mixing
- Timing & Amounts
- Summary
- Review
- Close
Jack Reynolds Brewer, Cook’s Pest Control
Jack is a Technical Manager with Cook’s Pest Control and is a Board-Certified Entomologist with certifications in Urban/Industrial and Medical/Veterinary. He is a graduate of Auburn University and has 34 years of experience in pest, termite, ornamental and mosquito control. He enjoys helping pest control professionals be successful.
4-5pm
Session 4, Flying Insect Technical Training Course
Description
Flying Insect Technical Training Course provides a thorough understanding of fly control importance, the diseases flies can transmit, and relevant legislation and audit standards. It explores the biology and behavior of large and small flies, and the effectiveness of insect light traps, focusing on maximizing UV irradiance and glueboard coverage. Participants will learn to adapt insect light trap products to target various fly species and select appropriate solutions based on end-user needs. Training covers site surveying, installation best practices, site inspections, and optimizing area coverage to ensure effective fly control in diverse environments.
Outline
- The need for fly control
- Diseases caused
- Legislation and audit standards
- Large and small flies
- Biology and behavior
- Insect Light Trap efficacy
- Maximising UV irradiance
- Useful glueboard area
- Adapting product to catch different fly species
- Insect Light Trap product selection
- Understanding end users and their needs
- Selecting the right solution
- Site surveying and installation
- Site inspection
- Area coverage
- Installation do’s and dont’s
Patrick F. Callahan (see above)
Thursday, October 9
Panache Events
102 Geneva Highway
Enterprise, AL 36331
Registration & Check-In: 12:30-1pm
1-3pm
Session 1-2, Subterranean Termite Control 101: Building on a Solid Foundation
Description
This detailed presentation covers comprehensive techniques for inspecting structures for subterranean termites, including advanced inspection equipment and methods. It emphasizes proper diagramming and thorough documentation, including calculating treatment areas and renewal inspection processes. The program explores common mistakes in treatment, discusses multiple sample treatment scenarios, and addresses how to interpret inspection findings for effective termite management. Attendees will gain hands-on knowledge to enhance accuracy, improve treatment outcomes, and build confidence in providing premium termite control services.
Outline
- Understand in-depth subterranean termite biology and behavior relevant to inspections
- Master advanced inspection techniques and use of specialized equipment
- Learn how to accurately diagram and document termite activity and treatment plans
- Identify and avoid common pitfalls in termite inspection and treatment
- Analyze various treatment scenarios and application methods for different building types
- Develop skills for preparing effective renewal inspections and ongoing termite management
- Engage in case studies and Q&A to reinforce learning and practical application
Donny Oswalt
Dr. Oswalt received his bachelor’s degree in Integrated Pest Management from Auburn University in 1993; his master’s degree in entomology from Auburn University in 1996 and his Ph.D. in entomology from Clemson in 2007. He worked as a pest control and termite technician early in his career and has spent the last 14 years’ operating his family run pest control business, The Bug Doctor. In 2020, he started Donny Oswalt Consulting Service which specializes in urban and structural pest management with emphasis in the areas of technical services, training, litigation support, wood destroying organism inspections, and the development and auditing of pest management programs for food processing, healthcare, commercial, and government facilities.
3-4pm
Session 3, Backyard Mosquito Management
Description
This Backyard Mosquito Management course offers a thorough understanding of mosquito control and its public health importance. It covers mosquito biology, focusing on life cycles and behaviors of key species like Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex. The program details mosquito-borne diseases, surveillance and monitoring techniques, and integrates biological, chemical, and physical control methods. Participants learn habitat modification, source reduction, safe insecticide use, and biological controls like natural predators. Emphasis is placed on community engagement, regulatory compliance, and safety protocols. Through evaluation and adaptive strategies, participants will gain skills to implement effective, sustainable mosquito management in backyard environments.
Outline
- Introduction to Mosquito Control
- Course Objectives:
- Understand the importance of mosquito control.
- Learn effective control strategies.
- Overview of Mosquito Biology:
- Life cycle and behavior.
- Course Objectives:
- Mosquito-Borne Diseases
- Common Diseases:
- Malaria, Dengue, Zika, West Nile Virus.
- Impact on Public Health:
- Global and local perspectives.
- Common Diseases:
- Identification of Mosquito Species
- Key Species:
- Aedes, Anopheles, Culex.
- Identification Techniques:
- Visual and behavioral characteristics.
- Key Species:
- Surveillance and Monitoring
- Methods:
- Trapping and sampling techniques
- Data Analysis:
- Interpreting surveillance data.
- Methods:
- Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM)
- Principles of IMM:
- Combining biological, chemical, and physical methods.
- Environmental Management:
- Habitat modification and source reduction.
- Principles of IMM:
- Chemical Control Methods
- Types of Insecticides:
- Larvicides and adulticides.
- Application Techniques:
- Safe and effective use of chemicals.
- Types of Insecticides:
- Biological Control Methods
- Natural Predators:
- Fish, bacteria, and other biological agents.
- Genetic Control:
- Sterile insect techniques.
- Natural Predators:
- Community Engagement and Education
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Educating communities on prevention.
- Community Involvement:
- Encouraging local participation in control efforts.
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Regulatory and Safety Considerations
- Compliance:
- Understanding local and international regulations.
- Safety Protocols:
- Ensuring safety in control operations.
- Compliance:
- Evaluation and Adaptation
- Measuring Success:
- Evaluating the effectiveness of control measures.
- Adapting Strategies:
- Modifying approaches based on outcomes.
- Measuring Success:
- Conclusion
- Review and Recap:
- Summarize key points.
- Q&A Session:
- Address participant questions.
- Review and Recap:
Rick Anglian
Rick is the Southeastern Territory Manager for Syngenta, overseeing operations across Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and the Florida Panhandle. A proud U.S. Army veteran with 12 years of service, Rick began his pest control career in 2014 as a Termite Technician and advanced to Director of Sales, where he built and managed high-performing teams. Joining Syngenta in August 2024, he brings extensive industry expertise, strategic leadership, and a passion for innovation. Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Business Administration. As Co-Chair of Georgia PestVets, Rick is also dedicated to supporting military veterans in the pest control industry.
4-5pm
Session 4: Common Pesticide Concerns in Alabama Homes and Backyards
Description
This presentation on Peridomestic Cockroach management covers key pest species found across the U.S., emphasizing their importance and common habitats. Participants will learn to identify major peridomestic cockroaches such as the American, Oriental, and Smokybrown cockroaches. The course introduces initial management considerations, focusing on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies including thorough inspection, sanitation, and physical/mechanical controls. Chemical solutions such as contact and residual insecticides, dusts, and baits are discussed for effective treatment. This comprehensive overview equips professionals with practical tools and knowledge to control these outdoor-invading pests and minimize their impact on structures and health.
Outline
- Introduction
- Define household & public health pest category (mosquitoes, cockroaches, ants, flies, rodents, etc.).
- Why these matter: disease risks, nuisance, client expectations.
- Importance
- Health, comfort, and safety of people and pets.
- Community-wide perception of safety in home landscapes.
- Concerns
- Misuse or misunderstandings common in backyard/home settings.
- Balancing effective control with safety/environment.
- Product Factors
- Proper products for household pests (baits, sprays, larvicides).
- Differences in indoor vs outdoor formulations.
- Formulation examples: bait stations for roaches vs sprays in mosquito control.
- Concentrations: pre-mix vs concentrate mistakes by homeowners or technicians.
- Technician Factors
- Training specific to household settings (mixing around kitchens, patios, pets).
- PPE—importance in residential applications.
- Equipment—calibration for indoor crack & crevice vs outdoor barrier sprays.
- Animal/Plant Factors
- Importance of pollinator protection when treating flowering plants near homes.
- Risks to pets, fishponds, backyard chickens.
- Wildlife impact: birds, butterflies, neighborhood green spaces.
- Site Factors
- Unique features of backyard/home landscapes: toys, grills, decks, fences, gardens, drainage ditches.
- Proper application near sensitive areas (porches, kiddie pools, AC units).
- Weather Changes
- Heat stress for applicators and chemical volatility in summer.
- Rain/wind drift in neighborhoods; runoff issues near storm drains.
- Resistance/Lack of Control
- Overuse of same active ingredients in homes (pyrethroids).
- Mosquito resistance concerns.
- Consumer complaints when products seem “ineffective.”
- Summary & Close
- Reinforce safe, effective control methods for household and public health pests.
- Quick checklist for technicians: Product, People, Pets, Pollinators.
Keith Miller
Keith Miller is the southeast Area Sales Manager for Envu Professional Pest Management. He covers Alabama, North Georgia, and South Mississippi. Keith has been with Envu 18 years, 13 in the Animal Health Division. Prior to Envu he worked for DVM Pharmaceuticals. Keith is 1993 graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. In his time away work from he likes to hunt, fish, golf and spend time with his wife and children.
Friday, October 10
Extension Service Building
1070 Schillinger Rd N
Mobile, Alabama 36608
Registration & Check-In: 7:30-8am
8-10am
Session 1-2, Alabama WDIR Review
Description
This presentation provides a detailed overview of the official Alabama Wood-Destroying Insect Report (WDIR) process. It covers biology, identification, and inspection tips for termites, wood-decaying fungi, and beetles related to the official WDIR form. Attendees will learn how to properly complete the WDIR, including required documentation and compliance with Alabama regulations. The course emphasizes liabilities involved in performing WDIR inspections and offers practical guidance to ensure accurate, legally defensible reports. PowerPoint slides and handouts featuring wood-destroying organisms support learning and enhance understanding of this critical pest management service.
Outline
- Introduction to Alabama WDIR and its significance
- Overview of wood-destroying organisms (termites, fungi, beetles)
- Biology and identification of key pests affecting Alabama structures
- Inspection techniques and tips for thorough WDIR assessments
- Proper completion of the official Alabama WDIR form
- Understanding liabilities and legal responsibilities in WDIR inspections
- Documentation, reporting standards, and compliance with state regulations
- Case studies and common challenges in field inspections
- Q&A and discussion with supporting PowerPoint and handouts
Michael Hayes, Pro Shield termite & Pest Control
Michael is a proud husband, father and grandfather residing in Mobile, AL. Michael has 40 years of experience in pest control, including pest and termite technician, sales rep, manager, and now owner operator. His proudest achievement is passing the Board Certified Entomologist exam in 2004.
10-11am
Session 3, Integrated Mosquito Control: Biology, Strategies, and Best Practices
Description
This comprehensive course covers essential mosquito biology, including life cycles, species, and geographical distribution. Participants will learn about integrated mosquito control strategies emphasizing both non-chemical customer education and professional pest management techniques. Key control methods such as larviciding, adulticiding, barrier and wide-area treatments, and the use of larvicide stations are thoroughly explored. The program also highlights practical recommendations for effective mosquito management in diverse settings. Through interactive discussions, participants will gain actionable insights to apply science-based control measures that protect public health while promoting environmental stewardship.
Outline
- Introduction and mosquito facts
- Mosquito Biology
- Life Cycle
- Species
- Mosquito distribution
- Integrated Mosquito Control
- Customer education and non-chemical control
- PMP mosquito management
- Larviciding
- Adulticiding
- Barrier treatments
- Wide-area treatments
- PMP mosquito management
- Larvicide Stations
- Recommendations
- Questions and Discussion
Keith Miller
Keith is the southeast Area Sales Manager for Envu Professional Pest Management. He covers Alabama, North Georgia, and South Mississippi. Keith has been with Envu 18 years, 13 in the Animal Health Division. Prior to Envu he worked for DVM Pharmaceuticals. Keith is 1993 graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. In his time away work from he likes to hunt, fish, golf and spend time with his wife and children.
11am-12pm
Session 4, Insecticide Training for Pest Control Operators
Description
This training covers the fundamentals of insecticide use in pest management, emphasizing proper application, safety, and regulatory compliance. Participants learn about insecticide categories, modes of action, labeling laws, appropriate equipment, and techniques. Sessions address emergency procedures, environmental protection, and the importance of recordkeeping. The course concludes with a hands-on demonstration and knowledge check to ensure skills, safety awareness, and professional standards are met.
- Introduction
- Purpose of insecticide training
- Importance of correct use in pest management
- Goals: effectiveness, safety, compliance, professionalism
- Understanding Insecticides
- Definition & role in IPM
- Insecticide categories (contact, residual, repellents, baits, dusts, aerosols, liquids, granules)
- Modes of action (nerve agents, IGRs, desiccants, biological products)
- Labels, Regulations & Recordkeeping
- The Label is the Law (signal words, EPA registration, use directions, storage & disposal)
Compliance (state, federal, local licensing) - Treatment logs, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements
- The Label is the Law (signal words, EPA registration, use directions, storage & disposal)
- Application Methods
- Equipment basics (sprayers, dusters, bait stations, foggers)
- Mixing & measuring (dilution rates, calibrated equipment)
- Application techniques (crack & crevice, perimeter, spot, bait placement)
- Safety & Emergency Procedures
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Worker, customer, and public safety measures
- Accidental exposure (first aid, poison control)
- Spills & leaks (containment, reporting)
- Environmental Considerations
- Preventing non-target exposure (pollinators, wildlife, water sources)
- Spill prevention & clean-up
- Proper disposal of containers and rinse water
- Knowledge Check & Certification
- Quiz or verbal Q&A
- Hands-on demonstration of mixing, calibration, application
- Review of labels and key safety points
Jack Brewer, Cooks Pest Control
Jack is a Technical Manager with Cook’s Pest Control and is a Board-Certified Entomologist with certifications in Urban/Industrial and Medical/Veterinary. He is a graduate of Auburn University and has 34 years of experience in pest, termite, ornamental and mosquito control. He enjoys helping pest control professionals be successful.
Registration
- Members: $0, free for members. Click here to view the membership list.
- Non-members: $75, not a member? Click here to join or renew.
