SYSTEMATIC TERMITE CONTROLSM : A TERMITE (ISOPTERA: RHINOTERMITIDAE) IPM PROGRAM FOR THE PEST CONTROL PROFESSIONAL

Abstract:
Systematic Termite ControlSM (STC) is a program developed by FMC Corporation to provide the professional pest control industry with a new, integrated strategy for the control of subterranean termite populations. The objective of STC is structural protectio,n, i.e., to control termite activity within the structure and or suppress termite populations around the structure. The elements of the STC program are: inspection, moisture management, food source management, liquid termiticide, termiticide foam, and termite bait. The pest control operator (PCO), using the results of the inspection, customizes a control strategy to provide structural protection for the customer. The elimination of conditions conducive to termite infestation, moisture and food sources is an important part of the treatment program. A new element of the STC program, termite bait, provides the PCO with an opportunity to suppress termite populations and to eliminate termite activity in and around structures. Above ground bait stations are attached directly onto active termite mud tubes. Termite monitoring stations are installed in the soil in areas around structures conducive to termite attack. When the monitor is infested by termites, the monitor is removed and a bait station is installed. Whether above ground or in ground, bait stations are replaced as the termites continue to feed until termite activity ceases. Monitor stations are then maintained and inspected periodically for as many years as the termite contract is in force. Information, such as: the graph of the structure, the location of conditions conducive to termite infestation, the location of termites and termite damage, the details of the termiticide used, and the results of baiting efforts, are all collected and stored on a hand held computer. Desk top computers are used to organize customer service routes and for the long term management of customer information.