The Role of Extension in Urban Pest Management: Impact of the PEST Program
Extension Education
James Davis
County Extension Director
UF/IFAS Extension Sumter County
Bushnell
Abstract
Urban pest management is an increasingly vital component of Extension programming as urbanization expands, bringing humans and pests into closer contact. Over 80% of the U.S. population resides in urban areas, increasing the need for proactive pest education. The CDC reports that cases of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases have nearly doubled in the past two decades, and pests cause billions of dollars in structural damage annually. Extension programs play a critical role in equipping communities with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to mitigate these risks.The Pest Educational Series & Training (PEST) program provides accessible, research-based training on urban pest control. Delivered through virtual and in-person sessions, PEST educates residents, government employees, and volunteers on termites, bedbugs, ants, rodents, and mosquitoes. Virtual sessions use polling to measure engagement, while in-person workshops reinforce learning through interactive instruction. A follow-up survey via Qualtrics assesses long-term behavior change.
By the program's conclusion, 80% of attendees adopted at least two pest control practices. Key outcomes included 100% (n=29) trimming trees and shrubs to prevent pest access, 97% (n=28) regularly inspecting homes for pests, and 93% eliminating moisture sources (n=26) and wood-to-ground contact (n=27). Additionally, 90% (n=26) planted landscape plants at least two feet from exterior walls, 83% (n=24) removed indoor pest food, water, and shelter, and 79% (n=23) sealed home entry points. Regarding mosquito management, 81% (n=22) removed larval habitats, 70% (n=19) used CDC-recommended repellents, and 28% (n=8) implemented biological mosquito control methods. Tick-related practices included 66% (n=19) checking pets and 72% (n=13) properly removing feeding ticks. PEST’s success underscores the value of Extension programs in promoting sustainable pest management. By offering a dual-format approach, the program ensures accessibility and engagement across diverse audiences, fostering more proactive pest prevention behaviors. Ongoing assessment will further refine program strategies and long-term impact.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
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Authors: James Davis, Faith Oi
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Davis, J. County Extension Director, UF/IFAS Extension Sumter County , Florida, 335138716
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Oi, F. Extension professor, Urban Entomology,, UF Entomology and Nematology Department, Florida, 32611