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Articles by Michael A. Bentley
Flea and Tick management
No audio available for this content. Warm weather doesn’t just bring outdoor fun — it brings a dramatic rise in flea and tick activity. These pests multiply fast, hide well and can quickly overwhelm homes, yards and pets. This exclusive supplement brings together leading entomologists and technical experts to give you the most effective, field‑proven strategies for staying ahead of infestations all summer long.
Ant management 2025
No audio available for this content. Ants remain the No. 1 source of callbacks for PMPs, draining time, profit and customer confidence. As the supplement notes, “ants continue to be the No. 1 reason for customer callbacks,” and even small colonies can “wreak havoc on the profitability of a route.” This guide gives PMPs the strategies, insights and field-tested methods needed to reduce callbacks, sharpen identification skills and deliver consistent results.
Ensure a customer comfort level with all technicians
Have you or anyone in your family ever hired someone to come into your home to perform a service and have a bad feeling about that person? Ask yourself: Why did you have a bad feeling? Was it a bad attitude, an honesty issue or something else? So often, it is way more subtle than that, but you probably did not let them work without keeping your eye on them and were relieved when they left. Now, think about your employees in your customers’ homes.
How to manage tick risks during the spring season
It’s no secret that climate factors such as temperature, precipitation, humidity and atmospheric pressure can influence pest activity. We observe this each year as plants and animals seemingly come to life as we transition from cold winter to warm spring. While temperature is an important driver of these changes, it’s often the combination of these factors, such as warmer temperatures combined with increased rainfall, that can have the biggest influence on seasonal pest abundance.
Insights from the 2025 Women in Pest Control Conference
The 2025 Women in Pest Control conference, held on March 6–7 at the historic Rumely Event Space in Kansas City, was a testament to the growing influence of women in the pest control industry. Over two days, an inspiring group of professionals came together to celebrate education, collaboration and empowerment. Before the conference officially began, a select group of attendees was treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Rockwell Labs, headquartered in Kansas City.
Soar to new heights: How bird management services can increase revenue
As noted in our 2025 State of the Industry Report, an increasing number of pest management professionals (PMPs) are adding services to strengthen their relationships with existing customers, reach new customers and augment revenue streams. The first step is knowing when the time is right to expand. There’s a certain amount of luck and aligning of stars, but your chance for success increases when you go into the process with clear eyes.
Assess your expertise in ant biology and behavior
When you see numerous ants in switch boxes, circuit breakers and transformers, do you wonder whether they have an attraction to electricity? Research suggests that foraging ants randomly wind up in these locations and get shocked when they come between live electrical contacts. The release of pheromones attracts additional ants in numbers that may clog equipment and cause it to malfunction.
4 strategies for closing sales with confidence
Sales can be a challenging but rewarding aspect of your pest control career. It requires a mixture of industry knowledge, interpersonal skills and confidence to turn leads into loyal customers. Closing a sale often comes down to building trust, addressing customer concerns and confidently presenting tailored solutions. Sales strategies for pest management professionals (PMPs) should emphasize relationship-building, overcoming objections and showcasing the value of your services.
Hosts on different coasts share their pest control experiences
Andy Sanefski and Gabe Seymour are pest control business owners and co-hosts of the “Coast 2 Coast Pest Talk” podcast. They are willing to share the opportunities, the challenges and everything in between they’ve encountered in the pest control industry. Their unique perspectives can be attributed to their experiences and home bases. Sanefski began his pest management career in 1997 as a technician, but the company he worked for was sold in 2006.
Prepare for the unexpected when it comes to weather
We’re only a few months into the new year, and much of the U.S. already has faced record-setting winter lows, with subzero temperatures and blizzard conditions affecting large parts of the country. If the recent weather whiplash has taught us anything, it’s to prepare for the unexpected. Any equipment that holds liquids, such as sprayers, hoses, tanks, lines and wands, may need to be properly prepared to avoid freezing.
Early detection key to combating bed bugs
If we polled pest control customers on what would be their worst “nightmare” for a pest infestation, almost all would say bed bugs. As pest management professionals (PMPs), we must provide outstanding bed bug service for our customers’ mental and physical health. One of the most important steps to eliminating infestations is to catch them early and treat them quickly.
A cautionary tale of pesticide exposure
My pesticide accident happened nearly 50 years ago, when our industry’s products and technologies were much different. Still, I share it as a reminder that we use materials that require knowledge and diligence to use safely and successfully. In the summer of 1977, my second year in the Pest Control Technology program at State University of New York (SUNY) Farmingdale, I was taught by Pest Management Professional columnist and Hall of Famer Dr. Austin Frishman (Class of 2022).
Strive to make your work-life balance guilt-free
In the fast-paced business world, guilt is an all-too-common emotion among business owners and general managers. For leaders in the pest control industry, guilt often stems from the desire to always be available to their team members. Many strive for an open-door policy, but this well-intentioned mindset can backfire, leaving them overworked, burned out and ultimately less effective.
5 ways to sharpen your pest identification skills
Effective pest control hinges on one foundational skill: accurate pest identification. Identifying the pest correctly isn’t just a box to check; it’s the cornerstone of effective, efficient and responsible pest control. Without this critical step, even the most advanced treatment plans can fall flat, leading to wasted resources and dissatisfied customers. Treatment always should begin with understanding the pest you are dealing with. Each pest species has unique behaviors and habitats.
Keys to carpenter ant control
As weather temperatures rise, we can expect to see ant activity increase, too. Finding any ant inside a structure is unwelcome, but uncovering carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.) can add a layer of concern because of their destructive nesting behavior. Costly carpentry skills aren’t the only behavior that separates carpenter ants from other pest ants. Understanding these differences and how to use them to your advantage can be the key to staying one step ahead of carpenter ants this spring.
How Technology Is Shaping the Future of Online Casino Regulation in South Africa
The online gambling market in South Africa has been expanding rapidly recently due to technological advancements and changing customer behaviours. With the launch of Internet casinos in South Africa, gambling is now far more accessible and diverse. But that growth also creates new challenges for regulators who must adapt the law to keep up with technological advancement.
Tips to take advantage of downtime during the slow season
We asked Pest Management Professional’s columnists and editorial advisory board members about how PMPs can take advantage of downtime during the slow season. Here are some of their responses from our February 2025 print edition. Greg Baumann: “Ask yourself why you have a slow season and set up a program to fill the schedule next year.
Terminix report indicates Top 50 cities for commercial pest infestations
Terminix, a Rentokil Terminix company, recently unveiled its list of the Top 50 pest-infested cities for commercial spaces across the U.S. The company collected service data from over 300 Terminix branches between October 2023 and September 2024. The report identifies the cities where businesses most often rely on Terminix’s commercial pest control services. “Pest pressures in commercial spaces can vary by region, season and industry, but they all have one thing in common.
Invest in yourself and your business by setting goals
As a pest control business owner, it’s easy to focus entirely on growing your company while neglecting your own well-being. However, your personal health and professional success are deeply interconnected. Setting intentional goals for both areas allows you to thrive as a leader while ensuring your business grows sustainably. Burnout is a common challenge for business owners. Long hours, demanding schedules and the pressure to succeed can affect your physical and mental health.
One change PMPs can implement in 2025 to help their businesses grow
We asked Pest Management Professional’s columnists and editorial advisory board members about one change PMPs can implement in 2025 to help their businesses grow. Here are some of their responses from our January 2025 print edition. Greg Baumann: “Employee retention. The cost of replacing employees is much larger than reported.
How to harness the power of social media
Using social media comes more naturally to the younger generations, but we older folks can still sharpen our skills. I would not even pretend to be a social media expert, but just because I’m not a pro does not mean I should not engage as a business owner. Social media has the power to help grow your audience and your company, but it also can hurt your business. Tempting as it may be, however, sticking your head in the sand is misguided.
Envu expands partnership with National Pest Management Association
Envu, a provider of professional and specialty solutions, will serve as the premier sponsor of the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA) Legislative Day and the exclusive sponsor of the association’s PestVets program. The enhanced partnership builds on the relationship Envu has with NPMA. “We are thrilled to strengthen our partnership with Envu through their increased support of these vital NPMA programs,” said Dominique Stumpf, CAE, CEO of the NPMA.
How the Trump administration could affect taxes
Republican tax policies traditionally center on tax cuts to spur economic growth. Given the party’s strong stance on reducing taxes to stimulate the economy, the likely result of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term will be a variety of tax-related shifts. What follows is a partial list that we at PCO Bookkeepers and M&A Specialists believe will be affected.
Pest Spotlight: Raccoons
Raccoons often are considered “cute little bandits” by homeowners — until those bandits turn their attention to the property. Raccoon numbers have exploded in recent years. A popular misconception is that the cause is habitat destruction. It’s the opposite: Raccoons readily adapt and exploit the unlimited housing and food supply a developed urban environment offers. Raccoons’ ability to use structures as they would a hollow tree is an issue that commonly brings them into conflict with homeowners.
Busy season prep: How to start strong next spring
What do competitive runners and pest management professionals (PMPs) have in common? Getting off to a good start can play an important role in their success. The key to a successful start begins with preparation. For competitive athletes, preparation begins with meticulous training, ensuring they have the right equipment for the event, and double-checking the quality and functionality of their gear to ensure everything is working properly.
12 steps to success in 2025
With a new year around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about ways to grow your pest control business. What if you could follow a simple, proven path to reach your next million-dollar goal? The Million Dollar Climb will help you do just that, with a 12-step guide I created specifically for pest control business owners. It gives you an organized, step-by-step approach to building a stronger business, one essential area at a time. Here’s a look at each step: 1. Culture.
Turning IPM upside down with baits
Cockroaches are seemingly evolving in their bait aversion traits, a situation many pest management professionals (PMPs) have experienced. Determining why this happens is critical because cockroaches, particularly the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), pose a public health threat. Studies have shown that cockroach allergens from their feces, dead bodies and molted skins can contribute to asthma, especially in children living in low-income, multi-family housing.
13 companies join Professional Pest Management Alliance's investor network
The Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA) recently revealed that 13 companies have been added to its investor network. The new companies pledge to support PPMA’s consumer awareness programming, which aims to educate the public on the health and property threats posed by pests. “Growing the pest control industry wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our investor network,” said PPMA Executive Director Dr. Jim Fredericks.
Why it's crucial to recognize the signs of potential wildlife infestations
Wildlife infestations in attics can pose significant risks to both property and health. As professionals, it is crucial to recognize the signs of potential wildlife infestations in attics early. Five key questions to ask your clients can help: 1. How loud is the noise? The intensity of the noise can provide essential clues regarding the type of animal present. For instance, scratching or scurrying sounds may indicate rodents, while flapping noises could suggest birds.
Tips for pest control companies to improve cost management in 2025
We asked Pest Management Professional’s columnists and editorial advisory board members to share some advice on how pest control companies can improve cost management in 2025. Here are some of their responses from our November 2024 print edition. Dr. Hamilton Allen: “Invest in accounting software and training. Improper accounting and management lead to the downfall of most small businesses. There are several tools on the market that can help you identify where your organization’s dollars are going.
Signs show the pest control industry looks to have a smooth road ahead in 2025
The professional pest management industry landscape remains diverse, with 42 percent of companies responding projecting revenues under $1 million; 47 percent in the $1 million to $10 million range; and 11 percent anticipating $10 million or more in 2025. This distribution, courtesy of the 2025 Pest Management Professional (PMP) State of the Industry survey, mirrors the overall U.S. distribution of small local operators, larger regional players and national firms.
Why good managers matter for improving company culture and keeping strong talent
People don’t quit jobs; they quit bad bosses. No one wants to work for a boss who makes them unhappy. However, the problem usually runs deeper than just the boss. In many cases, the company’s overall culture is the real issue. A company with a negative culture can make even a good manager seem terrible. A toxic culture encourages bad behavior and poor leadership.
Tree health can affect urban pest pressure
Are uncontrolled pests silently destroying trees on your customers’ properties? As a pest management professional (PMP), you can provide your residential or commercial customers with a valuable service they may not realize they need. You can help them avoid infestations by identifying and addressing tree health issues before they worsen. Trees that suffer from poor health tend to become more vulnerable to pest infestations.
Fred Frost: Breaking Down Barriers in the Trading World
Fred Frost didn’t come from a family of traders, nor did he have connections in high finance. What he did have was determination, a willingness to learn, and a vision. Born and raised in a small Danish town, Fred’s early life was simple, but his ambitions were anything but. After pursuing a degree in financial management and experimenting with his first trading group, Fred realized that trading wasn’t just for the elite—it could be a path for anyone, as long as they had the right knowledge.
PMP Hall of Fame Class of 2024 revealed | Pest Management Professional
Since 1996, Pest Management Professional (PMP) magazine has proudly inducted 110 innovators, pioneers, educators, advocates and other legends who have made meaningful contributions to the professional pest management field. The accomplishments of this year’s class are a continuation of the concept, as you’ll see in their profiles on the next few pages. The PMP staff is preparing to host another black-tie dinner celebration and induction ceremony on Oct.
Wildlife Control Supplies: WCS Easy Set Tube Trap | Pest Management Professional
The WCS Easy Set Tube Trap from Wildlife Control Supplies features a new patented setting system. Constructed of 21-gauge steel, this tunnel-shaped, rust-resistant trap is 4.5 inches in diameter, 15 inches long, and is powered by a beefy double torsion spring. Used either baited or non-baited, the tunnel trap is a natural attractant to squirrels and other rodents wanting to run through it or hide in it.
Live coverage from Day 2 of the inaugural National Urban Rat Summit | Pest Management Professional
The inaugural National Urban Rat Summit taking place this week has garnered some mainstream media interest as well as our industry coverage. Such articles include: CBS ABC FOX Gothamist (Headline: “Rats like to pee on each other, and other lessons from NYC’s Rat Summit”) For the morning of Day Two, Sept. 19, the seating configuration changed from the previous day’s lecture hall style to small-group tables.
Live coverage from the inaugural National Urban Rat Summit | Pest Management Professional
Editor’s Note: This post will be updated throughout the event. The first-ever National Urban Rat Summit is taking place this week at Pier 57 in New York City.
10 questions for determining company value | Pest Management Professional
As a kid, I would play “10 Questions” to meet new friends. I discovered it was a great way to learn more about people I didn’t know. I meet pest management professionals (PMPs) often, and they will ask me for a value multiple for their business. My professional answer is “It depends — please let me ask you a few questions.” What follow are 10 questions I would expect them to know the answers to and readily share. 1. What are your yearly gross sales?
Looking back on the decision to merge with no regrets | Pest Management Professional
Four years after Arrow Exterminators acquired Lewis Cobb Pest Control, Roger Lewis has no regrets. He spent his entire 48-year pest control career at the Orlando, Fla.-based company, where he worked with brothers Rick and Randy. As they neared retirement age, the brothers decided to sell the business. “I have never doubted this decision was right for me, our employees and our customers,” Roger says.
Finally Pest Control diversifies for growth | Pest Management Professional
One of the largest roadblocks I have run into as a consultant is the uneasiness some business owners have in changing procedures, marketing, protocols, pricing, etc. Change terrifies them. One particular company I was attempting to work with is facing the real possibility of folding in the next couple years because they refuse to adapt. They are still operating without pest management software and still producing routes manually.
3 key attributes that drive company valuation | Pest Management Professional
Despite higher interest rates that have had an impact on valuations in other industries, the pest control space is still yielding premium returns today for well-run pest control companies. Competition among strategic and financial sponsors (private equity firms). The fragmented nature of the industry. Low regulatory barriers to enter the market. Increased pest pressure and consumer demand. Overall minimal cost of equipment and capital expenditures to operate a pest control business.
Be aware of secondary pest infestations and their unintended consequences | Pest Management Professional
Understanding the cause of an infestation is an important step in resolving the pest issue at hand, as well as knowing what preventive measures to take to avoid similar issues in the future. While we often look to structural defects, humans or environmental factors as potential sources of the infestation, sometimes the pests themselves create conducive conditions that invite a secondary infestation.
Early-bird registration deadline approaches for PestWorld 2024 | Pest Management Professional
Early-bird registration for The National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA) PestWorld 2024 will end on Friday, Sept. 6. The event will take place in Denver, Colo., from Oct. 22-25 and offers attendees opportunities for networking, education and professional development. Earn recertification credits through a diverse educational program featuring seven technical tracks. Enjoy keynote speeches from multicultural marketing expert Kelly McDonald and former NFL Pro Bowler Justin Forsett.
3 strategies that strengthen pest control revenue | Pest Management Professional
Many business owners focus on getting more clients to grow revenue and profit, but there are other effective ways to achieve business growth. Consider trying these three strategies: Sell more to your existing customer base. This growth strategy is often overlooked, yet it is more profitable and easier to sell more to your existing clients than it is to acquire new ones. Marketing additional services to your existing clients also is much less expensive than cold-calling potential customers.
The Pest Posse Roundup: An in-house entomology department offers many benefits | Pest Management Professional
In a recent discussion on the importance of establishing an in-house entomology department, Andy Sanefski, PCQI, founder of Perimetek Pest Management in Syracuse, N.Y., shared some enlightening insights. With more than 16 years in commercial pest management, Sanefski has seen firsthand how the industry has evolved. His dedication to advancing the industry is evident in the development of his company’s urban entomology lab, a move that promises to raise the industry bar for training and service.
How Bugsy’s Pest Solutions bounced back from early growing pains to enjoy success | Pest Management Professional
When I started Schopen Pest Solutions in 2006, I hired a family friend to do my taxes. He was a certified public accountant (CPA) and had done some work for my dad’s pest control company. We had built a friendly relationship over the years, and he even helped me set up my corporate paperwork. In 2009, I received a knock at my door. A young woman introduced herself and explained she was with the IRS (cue “The Imperial March [Darth Vader’s Theme]”).
On the Job: Paddle-powered pest control | Pest Management Professional
Late last year, my wife, Tami, and I moved from Illinois to Northeast Oklahoma, near Tulsa. We purchased 85 acres, including a nine-acre pond. I love my pond. I am out there daily, kayaking and fishing for largemouth bass. We have many other forms of wildlife, including crappie, sunfish, catfish, turtles, water snakes, deer, bobcats, blue jays, cardinals, tarantulas, giant cranes and more. I love seeing them all, even the coyotes.
3 tips for finding accurate pest control info online | Pest Management Professional
An unfortunate side effect of today’s powerful search engines is that they can return an overwhelming number of search results that may or may not contain accurate information. The margin for error is razor thin when confirming technical information, and having to wade through pages of responses to find reliable articles can be challenging. Here are three tips to help you separate fact from fiction on your next internet search.
AAPSE honors NPMA president with Fellow Award | Pest Management Professional
Faye Golden, director of government affairs at Cook’s Pest Control and president of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), was presented with the American Association of Pesticide Safety Educators (AAPSE) Fellow Award at its recent 2024 National Conference in Laramie, Wyo. The AAPSE Fellow Award is the highest recognition bestowed by the association. Golden was elected as president of the NPMA Board of Directors earlier this year and began her term on July 1.
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