Termites are resourceful insects as shown by this damaged book box brought to class by Anita Woessner.
Yesterday’s IPM House training was designed for new technicians, but that didn’t stop a few seasoned veterans from turning out. Experience in pest control ranged from just a few days on the job to 30 years, making for a very diverse class.
BoJack Jalowy, with Naturescape Texas out of Kerrville, tries out canned foam in a simulated wall void.
Anita Woessner, Affordable Pest Control of Denton, TX, brought in a termite ridden box of books. Taken from a client’s garage, the box sat for years on the concrete floor, over a cold joint in the slab. Eventually subterranean termites discovered their treasure and had their way with it. Part of the course covered basic termite biology and behavior, and part dealt with the practical matter of how to approach a termite control job.
Rotations in the afternoon walked the class through microscopic identification of termites and ants, using a measuring wheel to diagram a WDI inspection, and learn how to calibrate a termite rig. In addition students learned about use of foam in termite jobs and in-ground baiting for termites.
The class was introductory, so many of the finer details were not covered to the veterans’ satisfaction; but everyone seemed to take away something useful. Look for Advanced termite training to be offered at sometime in the near future.