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October 2023
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President's Notes
As I mentioned in my comments during the Board of Directors meeting in Temecula two weeks ago, it has been an exciting eight months since beginning my journey as the chief executive of this organization. Over this period, I have spoken with hundreds of individuals who each have their own perspective of what PCOC means to them. I pen this article after attending the Opening Ceremony of PestWorld 2023 earlier in the day. At the beginning of the event, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) leadership played a dynamic video produced to celebrate their 90th Anniversary as an organization. It reminded me of the rolling slide presentation of historic industry photos along with more contemporary pictures that PCOC highlighted in Monterey to celebrate PCOC’s 80th Anniversary. At the center of both presentations are core values that have driven both professional pest management associations for nearly 100 years. It is undeniable that landscape of the pest control industry would be quite different if it were not for the collective efforts of the leadership, membership, and staff of these associations and the countless other organizations throughout the United States and around the world. A little less than a month from now a diverse group of PCOC’s membership will meet in Burbank, California to help brainstorm on the most important goals and objectives for our Board of Directors to implement the critical underpinnings of our association’s mission statement to protect people, property and the food supply through environmental stewardship and legislative and regulatory advocacy. As part of this effort, PCOC’s Executive leadership, District and Committee Chairs along with other highly respected members will engage in energetic discussions to inspire dynamic ideas that will help identify bold short and long-term initiatives that seek to restore PCOC’s status as the best state pest management association in the country. This strategic thinking process seeks to focus on identifying potential strategic suggestions that can help expand a final product beyond an ordinary planning session document but securing an operational blueprint for PCOC to grow and prosper. Steve Swafford, co-founder of Leadership Outfitters, will facilitate these consensus-based sessions. Steve has worked for more than 30 years with non-profits, trade associations, and professional societies in areas of strategy, leadership development, communication, membership, and executive management. Steve is also active in California Society of Association Executives (CalSAE) and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) leadership along with serving as a full-time Practitioner Faculty at Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School. I appreciate the opportunity to serve PCOC and this tremendous industry of pest management professionals. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with ideas, concerns or just to check on ongoing activities. As I have articulated many times since coming aboard, PCOC is your association. It is important for you and your staff to be personally engaged in PCOC activities and functions. Hope to see all of you at a PCOC event soon. Michael E. Wilson 
Upcoming Events
All Event Information can be found at WWW.PCOC.ORG/EVENTS
Affiliate Corner
Super savings await with the 2024 PestPartners℠ 365 Program from SyngentaWith a bigger Early Order Bonus and new digital tools, PestPartners 365 offers yearlong savings on the entire Syngenta product portfolio GREENSBORO, N.C., USA, Oct. 2, 2023 ― The PestPartners℠ 365 Program is back for 2024 with even greater opportunities for yearlong savings. By participating in the only rebate program that applies to a full portfolio of products throughout the year, pest management professionals (PMPs) can save on the quality products they need ― and be a hero to customers by providing a life uninterrupted by pests. It’s easy to become a member. PMPs simply need to generate at least $200 in base rebates by purchasing any combination of Syngenta products during the qualification period from Oct. 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. This year, greater savings are also available for the Early Order Bonus. PMPs who generate at least $1,000 in base rebates between Oct. 1 and Dec. 8, 2023, will receive a larger one-time Early Order Bonus payment than in previous program years. “We’re always looking for new ways to make PestPartners 365 even more rewarding and user-friendly for PMPs,” said Marshall Gaster, head of marketing for Professional Pest Management (PPM) at Syngenta. “By increasing the value of the Early Order Bonus, we can give PMPs a greater opportunity to invest back into their businesses.” Program members can enjoy the following benefits:
Members and nonmembers alike can also access free digital tools, such as:
· The new callback calculator, which can help PMPs compare retreatment costs · The new mixing calculator, which simplifies the tank-mixing process “Our digital tools are designed to help PMPs get more precise with how they can save all year,” said Chris Gigley, marketing communications lead for PPM at Syngenta. “The new callback and mixing calculators, in particular, can help PMPs understand the value of Syngenta products and provide more opportunities for efficiency in the field — all of which impacts the bottom line. We believe PMPs will find all these tools incredibly valuable.” For more information, visit PestPartners365.com. Join the conversation with Syngenta Pest on LinkedIn, Facebook and X, using the hashtag #PestPartners365.
About Syngenta Syngenta Crop Protection and Syngenta Seeds are part of Syngenta Group, one of the world’s leading agriculture companies. Our ambition is to help safely feed the world while taking care of the planet. We aim to improve the sustainability, quality and safety of agriculture with world-class science and innovative crop solutions. Our technologies enable millions of farmers around the world to make better use of limited agricultural resources. The content of this release is for information purposes only. This release is not, and should not be construed as, an offer to sell or issue or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or other property interests. To learn more, visit www.syngenta.com and www.goodgrowthplan.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Syngenta and www.twitter.com/SyngentaUS and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/syngenta. Media Contacts: Tessa Figueroa Web Resources: Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements © 2023 Syngenta, 410 S. Swing Road, Greensboro, NC 27409. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties and/or may have state-specific use requirements. Please check with your local extension service to ensure registration and proper use. Demand®, For Life Uninterrupted™, PestPartners℠, SummerPay™ and the Syngenta logo are trademarks or service marks of a Syngenta Group Company. All other trademarks are the property of their respective third-party owners. CAPMA Monthly Insurance/Safety Tip
An undercurrent of mental health issues is disrupting workplaces across the United States, leading to concerns about productivity, engagement, and retention.
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) recently released a report revealing a startling trend: an increasing number of U.S. employees are battling mental health issues, often directly resulting from their work environment. According to the SHRM study, one in three U.S. employees admits that their job has negatively impacted their mental health in the past six months. This invisible crisis has tangible consequences and employers should consider acting before it’s too late. The Changing Landscape: Employee Needs and the Role of Employers In years past, employers were typically not expected to address mental health in the workplace directly. The tides, however, are rapidly changing. According to the same SHRM research, almost half of U.S. employees now expect a higher level of mental health support from their organizations than in previous years. This evolution presents employers with an excellent opportunity to create a healthier, more supportive work environment that benefits both employees and the bottom line. The Current Response: A Need for Improvement Many organizations have already taken significant steps to support the mental health of their employees, using Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health apps, and in other ways. Yet, despite these well-meaning efforts, the SHRM study found that 59% of U.S. employees feel their organizations still offer too few mental health resources. While employers are making greater efforts to support mental health, these figures show there’s still much ground to cover. Employers should consider re-evaluating their mental health support strategies, assessing what’s working and, crucially, what isn’t. A Proactive Approach: Steps Toward a Healthier Workplace What strategies might help employers better meet their employees’ mental health needs? The answer lies in listening to the workforce. SHRM’s study shows that employees are asking for paid mental health days, mental health coverage in healthcare plans, and free or subsidized virtual mental health services. Additionally, employers should consider options such as mindfulness classes, mental health support groups, and mandatory mental health training for managers and employees. Experts suggest that these efforts, paired with providing mental health accommodations like flexible scheduling and work breaks, can create a more supportive workplace environment. But it’s not enough to introduce these measures and hope for the best. Employers should consider actively promoting the availability of these resources, ensuring every employee is aware of what’s available to them. The Benefits of Investing in Mental Health Addressing mental health is not just an altruistic effort. It’s a strategic one. If left unaddressed, mental health issues can lead to increased turnover and decreased productivity. SHRM’s study found that “employees who work for organizations that are not successful at creating a workplace that supports mental health are less likely to describe their mental health as good or excellent (46 percent), compared to those who work for organizations that are successful at creating a workplace that supports mental health (74 percent).” Thus, an investment in mental health support can be an investment in workforce stability and productivity. Plus, there’s a higher likelihood of retaining employees who feel their employer prioritizes their mental health. For more information or help, contact the Insurance professionals of EPIC’s PCOC Insurance Program.
Regulatory Updates
As we navigate through 2023, it's crucial to keep our members informed about key issues and opportunities that the Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC) is closely monitoring. Here's a snapshot of the pressing topics based on recent developments: 1. Rodenticide PID Updates: Earlier in the year, the EPA released Proposed Interim Registration Review Decisions (PID’s) encompassing a broad range of rodenticides. The PCOC, in unison with other pesticide user groups, raised specific concerns primarily surrounding the use and potential restrictions of anti-coagulant products, both first (multi-feed) and second (single feed) generation. The EPA has announced plans to address impacts and mitigation concerning endangered species in November. The outcomes of these decisions will undoubtedly influence the future regulations surrounding these rodenticides. 2. Spotlight on Sustainable Pest Management (SPM): The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has launched a robust initiative on SPM, aiming to shape the direction of pest control over the next several years. To fund this venture, there's an ongoing discussion to enhance the Mill Assessment. DPR's outreach efforts are in full swing, encompassing dialogues with individuals, organizations, and counties. If any PCOC member or industry representative is approached regarding this, we urge you to promptly connect with your local district chair or the PCOC directly. Our Regulatory Committee is drafting key talking points and a position paper, which will be shared soon. 3. DPR’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan: The DPR is currently laying down its vision for 2024-2028, encapsulating the direction and specific initiatives they plan to undertake. SPM features prominently in this strategy. PCOC will be an active participant in the series of meetings slated for October and November, ensuring our voice is heard. Stay tuned for subsequent updates. 4. SPCB WDO Operator Exam Re-development: A noteworthy announcement for those in the industry: The Structural Pest Control Board is hosting a WDO OPR Exam redevelopment workshop on December 5-6 in Sacramento. Interested participants stand to gain a $200 daily compensation, in addition to travel expenses and CEU’s. If you're keen to contribute, the board awaits your outreach. As always, PCOC values and appreciates your unwavering support. We encourage each one of you to play an active role in the association's efforts to champion and protect our esteemed industry. Should you have queries or feedback, our lines of communication are always open. Darren Van Steenwyk, M.S., BCE
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