TAKE THE RODENT PESTS RESOURCES SURVEY
Rat Infestation Impact & Resources – Protecting Crops and Infrastructure with Strategic Solutions
Key Resources (on this page):
- Rodent Pests Resources Survey: Quantifying rat damage and economic impact
- Revised CDFA Label for Zinc Phosphide Treated Grain (2.0%)
- CDFA OPCA Infographic: Chemical Rat Management in Agricultural Settings
- Memo: Crop insurance reporting and eligibility guidance
Rat infestations have caused significant damage to irrigation systems, trees, field equipment, wiring, and critical infrastructure across agricultural operations. In response, since the fall of 2024, CAPCA has been actively engaged in working to identify solutions and support for the rat infestations scattered across the Central Valley.
Through partnerships with Western Growers and the Almond Board of California, CAPCA has developed a comprehensive survey to accurately measure the scale and economic impact of rat-related losses. Your voice is vital. Take action today by completing the Rodent Pests Resources Survey, linked on this page, to share your experiences and help strengthen the case for updated pest management resources.
The Vertebrate Pest Control Research Program has revised the CDFA label, Zinc Phosphide Treated Grain (2.0%). Refer to the updated label on this page.
Additionally, the Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis has created an infographic to show which chemical options are allowed for rat control in various orchard and agricultural settings. See that infographic below.
For guidance on reporting procedures and insurance coverage eligibility, refer to the memo from Jack Roudebush, Advisor – Captive Strategist at HUB International Limited, available on this page.
CAPCA remains committed to bridging the gap between growers and industry leaders by disseminating vital knowledge and fostering collaborative solutions.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Given that this infestation has reached a level beyond maintenance and requires an area wide coordinated approach to address the issue, we have worked with UC along with various commodity groups to provide the most up-to-date information for PCAs to access.
- See multiple CAPCA Adviser Articles, including the resources on this page, starting on p. 51
- See additional CAPCA Adviser Article on p. 66
- CAPCA worked with growers to provide OPCA vital details to deliver an economic impact memo on this evolving issue: CDFA Memo: Rat Damage in Almond Orchards
- Fresh Bait Available in key Counties – Visit CAC Fresh Bait summary
- Prior guidance from UC: Managing Roof Rats and Deer Mice in Nut and Fruit Orchards can be found here.
Do you want to sign up to be part of the solution and be on a list of applicators available for Counties to reference when growers are in need of application services? Click here to join the list.