Henderson Co. Agriview
by Rick Hirsch County Extension Agent

Subterranean termites are the most destructive insect pests of wood in the United States. They cause more than $2 billion in damage each year, more property damage than that caused by fire and windstorm combined.

In nature, subterranean termites are beneficial. They break down many dead trees and other wood materials that would otherwise accumulate. The biomass of this breakdown process is recycled to the soil as humus.

Problems occur when termites attack the wooden elements of human structures -- homes, businesses and warehouses. Their presence is not readily noticed because they hide their activity behind wallboards, siding or wood trim.

Homeowners in all areas of Texas should watch for subterranean termites and take precautions to prevent infestations.

Thorough inspections can determine whether infestations and damage are present, whether remedial control measures are needed, and what conditions can encourage termite attack.

Texas A&M's Department of Entomology has an excellent website for termite information, http://termites.tamu.edu. This site is dedicated to providing current information on termites found in the state, and includes many details such as the insects' identifying characteristics, the type of damage done, as well as their distribution.

PRIVATE APPLICATOR TRAINING / TESTING, JUNE 5

Area agricultural producers will have the opportunity to complete training and testing to meet the requirements for obtaining a private applicator license at a program scheduled for Tuesday, June 5th at the Trinity Valley Community College Ranch Management Building in Athens. The training will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by the testing.

Producers interested in the program should call the Extension office at 903-675-6130 by 5:00 p.m., Friday, June 1st to preregister.

To become a licensed private applicator, a producer must attend a Texas Cooperative Extension private applicator training program, make a passing score on a Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Private Applicator examination and submit an application to TDA along with a required $60 fee. The TDA private applicator license is valid for 5 years.

Class participants are strongly urged to purchase a Private Applicator License Training manual. The manual and study worksheets are available at the County Extension office for $20.00.

For further information about the program, contact Rick Hirsch, Henderson County Extension Agent at 903-675-6130.

In an effort to aid in "Homeland Security," TDA requires license candidates to provide proof of identification before examinations will be administered. Acceptable forms of ID are valid Drivers Licenses, official Military identification, or State ID cards.

BUG SEASON:

Warm weather season is approaching and it's time for pet owners to prepare for flea and tick season. Recent rains combined with rising temperatures have given fleas and ticks an optimal environment for reproduction. It is important to begin flea treatment as early as possible. A good place to start is with a flea comb and good bath for your pet. Soap acts as a light insecticide and reduces the need for stronger chemicals. Adult fleas and eggs can be controlled with medication from a veterinarian in the form of a pill or chemical treatment applied to the back of the animal. A fenced yard can help control infestations by preventing pets from being exposed to new flea and tick populations. Yards can also be treated with granulated insecticides. It is also important to clean or dispose of pet bedding material on a regular basis, as well as keep animal loafing areas clean. Keeping lawns mowed can decrease pest problems. Short grass does not provide as much shade and moisture for small insects like fleas and ticks. Aerosol foggers and liquid sprays, in addition to a thorough cleaning, can help control fleas and ticks indoors.

IMPORTANT DATE:

June 5 - Private Applicator Training & Testing, 8:30am, TVCC Ranch Management Bldg.