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Even In My Own Backyard
30 Nov, 2005 By: Frank H. Andorka Jr. LM Week in ReviewI picked up a copy of my local weekly newspaper, and there it was on the front page: an article about a battle brewing in a neighboring town over the use of pesticides on public lands.
As I read the story, replete with the usual alarmist quotations about the alleged health effects of pesticides on pets and children, I found myself talking back to the paper (as my wife Beth will tell you, I do that a lot).
When she pointed out to me that no one could hear me, I realized I couldn't allow the misinformation to stand.
After calming down a bit, I called the writer, who just happened to be an old friend of mine, and asked him if he might find some space for me in the newspaper to answer the charges.
He talked to his editor, and the newspaper offered me 600 words to defend our industry and the truth. I've accepted the challenge, and I'd accept any thoughts you might want me to share.
Although it might be more comforting to ignore local flare ups and grumble about the "environmental extremists" at industry meetings, that's not enough. It's your obligation as members of the industry to do whatever you can to deal with these battles — together — as they arise.
Which brings me to a critical point: Pest management professionals should never forget they are not alone in this fight. As the antipesticide movement grows, it's critical to join forces with other professional pesticide applicators, such as golf course superintendents and lawn care operators.
It's time to create networking opportunities among different groups before these local movements become even more widespread. Check out the Web sites of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and Professional Landscape Network, find your local associations and contact their leaders. You might be surprised at how receptive they are to the idea of joining forces.
Andorka Jr. is editorial director of Pest Control magazine.
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