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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, January 9, 2010

Pest Control Association pitches in to help with Chinatown rat problem


Advertiser Staff

The Hawai'i Pest Control Association members are contributing supplies and expertise to help Chinatown vendors in their much-publicized battle against rat infestation.

A representative from Tropical Termite and Pest Control spoke with dozens of area vendors last night to share information on rat control and prevention.
Association member Xtermco also donated three cases (about 150 units) of glue boards, which can be used for rodent control.
Acknowledging that control measures need to extend to area sewers, where rats live, the association also donated more than 80 pounds of rodent sewer treatment to help with the problem.
"Vendors seemed appreciative and had a better understanding that the problem is not the result of anything that they are doing wrong," said Tim Lyons, executive director of the Hawai'i Pest Control Association, in an email to the Advertiser. "Anyone who provides food and shelter can have a problem."
The rat problem came to light last year when citizen journalist Larry Geller captured video of rats walking along and on top of produce at a market in Kekaulike Marketplace. The state Department of Health issued several citations and has been working with vendors to address the problem, which many area businesses say extends throughout the Chinatown area.