07/03/2023

A Letter from the President: Samantha Forrest

Renewal Season and the Summer Season Has Hit!

I wanted to provide you with a brief update on the recent activities of the Maryland State Pest Control Association. Over the past few months, we have been actively engaged in promoting professionalism and excellence within our industry. We successfully organized several training workshops and seminars, equipping our members with the latest knowledge and techniques to tackle the unique challenges within our industry.

Hopefully our efforts in providing these training workshops and seminars, have helped you earn the recertification credits you need to renew your pesticide applicator certification(s) and your Pesticide Business License. Remember the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), launched a new online system for renewals. You should have received a postcard from MDA in early June with a code to use to renew by June 30th. If you are unsure of your status follow this link: https://egov.maryland.gov/MDA/Pesticides/LicenseRenewal. If you need assistance call MDA directly at 410-841-5710. 

Additionally, we have been actively advocating for sensible and effective pest control practices by engaging with regulatory bodies and policymakers. Our commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible pest management remains steadfast. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead as we strive to elevate the standards of the pest control industry in Maryland.

With that being said, I do want to announce this past month, we said good-bye to our SPAR, Dr. Lucas Carnohan, BCE. Lucas, as we know him, is making a HUGE change; however, staying within the pest industry and moving out of state. See the article below about Lucas' next chapter in his career. We here at MSPCA, will truly miss him, but look forward to seeing him around at industry events in the near future.

Please remember to take advantage of the Fred Neil Scholarship, if you, one of your children, any of your employees or your employee's children will be attending college this fall. The application deadline has been extended to July 31st. The scholarship recipients(s) will be notified in August and will be awarded a $1,000.00 scholarship to use toward their college education. 

I also want to lend a word of encouragement as we are deep into the midst of the summer season! I hope everyone working in the pest management industry embraces the opportunities it brings. This time of year is when pests tend to be most active, making the services of pest control professionals even more valuable. By providing effective and timely pest management solutions, you are helping homeowners and businesses maintain comfortable, pest-free environments. I know it feels like you are running on fumes sometimes through summer, but I want to encourage, and remind you that the summer season presents a chance to showcase YOUR expertise and demonstrate the importance of proactive pest control measures. So, seize this opportunity, promote your services, and assure customers that you are ready to tackle any pest challenges they may face. Together, we can make this summer a season of success for our members and a season of peace and comfort for those in need of your services.

Thank you for your commitment to our industry and your continued trust in our association. Your dedication and expertise play a vital role in safeguarding public health and protecting our communities. Together, we can make a significant impact this summer season and beyond.

Happy bug hunting!
Samantha Forrest
President, MSPCA