Latest News

MSPCA Member Benefit: The Fred Neil Scholarship
04/28/2026

MSPCA Member Benefit: The Fred Neil Scholarship

The Fred Neil Scholarship is a valuable MSPCA member benefit that provides financial support to employees and their families pursuing higher education. Established to honor Fred Neil’s long-standing contributions to the Association, the scholarship helps offset college expenses while recognizing academic achievement. MSPCA members are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their future and the next generation. Apply by June 16, 2026!

MSPCA Recognizes Charlie Barton, ACE for Outstanding Service as SPAR
04/28/2026

MSPCA Recognizes Charlie Barton, ACE for Outstanding Service as SPAR

MSPCA recognizes Charlie Barton, ACE of American Pest for his leadership as State Policy Affairs Representative (SPAR). During the Maryland General Assembly session, he played a key role in opposing House Bill 1237 and advocating for the pest management industry. His notable efforts include legislative engagement and testimony, advocating for language in the Farm Bill, and highlighting the value of a strong pest management industry.

Renewal Season is Here – Stay Connected, Stay Supported
04/28/2026

Renewal Season is Here – Stay Connected, Stay Supported

Renewal season is here for joint members of the Maryland State Pest Control Association (MSPCA) and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). This year, NPMA will lead the distribution of renewal notices to all Pest Management Professionals (PMPs), streamlining the process while maintaining the strong partnership between national and state organizations. Companies whose corporate headquarters are located outside of Maryland will be billed by MSPCA in May. Members are encouraged to renew by June 30 to continue receiving the full range of benefits that support business growth, professional development, and industry advocacy. MSPCA remains available to assist members throughout the renewal process, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience.

Not a member? This is a great time of year to join, gaining 14 months of membership for the price of 12!

Legislative Call to Action!
04/27/2026

Legislative Call to Action!

Best chance to codify Pesticide Preemption!

Maryland PMPs Bring the Case for Preemption to Capitol Hill
03/28/2026

Maryland PMPs Bring the Case for Preemption to Capitol Hill

In March, a dedicated group of Maryland Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in NPMA’s Legislative Day, advocating for one of the industry’s most pressing issues: state pesticide preemption. As one of only six states without preemption, Maryland professionals face ongoing challenges navigating a patchwork of local regulations that complicate compliance and operations. By sharing their experiences directly with lawmakers, Maryland’s delegation highlighted the need for consistent, science-based pesticide policies at the state and national levels. Alongside their advocacy efforts, attendees also strengthened industry connections and camaraderie, underscoring the value of participation in this impactful annual event.

MSPCA Savings4Members - Savings at Your Fingertips
03/28/2026

MSPCA Savings4Members - Savings at Your Fingertips

Money saving discounts for MSPCA Members

MSPCA members can take advantage of Savings4Members, a valuable cost-saving program designed to help businesses reduce operating expenses and boost their bottom line. Through this benefit, members gain access to exclusive discounts and pre-negotiated pricing with national vendors across essential categories—including credit card processing, payroll and HR services, office supplies, fuel, shipping, uniforms, and more—enabling savings on everyday business needs. A dedicated team of Savings Consultants works with members to identify and activate the most beneficial programs for their operations, making it easy to cut costs, streamline processes, and reinvest savings back into growing the business.

Recap Interstate Pest Management Conference (IPMC) 2026
03/28/2026

Recap Interstate Pest Management Conference (IPMC) 2026

The MSPCA Interstate Pest Management Conference, held January 29–30 in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, successfully delivered critical training and continuing education to nearly 700 pest management professionals despite severe winter weather conditions. A snowstorm that coated the region in dense “snow-crete” created travel challenges, preventing approximately 50 registrants from attending. To ensure all participants could meet their certification requirements, MSPCA transferred those affected to a forthcoming Last Chance Webinar on May 28th. The conference demonstrated the organization’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education and the resilience of the pest management community in maintaining professional standards under adverse conditions.

Prepare for the Unexpected
03/28/2026

Prepare for the Unexpected

By Richard D. Kramer, BCE, Kramer Pest Management and Consulting

Richard Kramer highlights common field challenges faced by pest management professionals and the importance of proactive practices to reduce liability and maintain service quality. Through real-world examples, he emphasizes proper material use, customer interaction, and technician protocols to protect both company reputation and client safety.

If You’re Cold, They’re Cold
12/30/2025

If You’re Cold, They’re Cold

By David Moore, II, BCE, Dodson Bros. Exterminating Co., Inc.

In this article, David Moore, II, BCE talks about the importance of winter equipment maintenance for pest control professionals. He provides practical guidance on cleaning, storing, calibrating, and repairing sprayers, traps, PPE, and service vehicles during the off-season. By taking these steps, technicians can extend the life of their equipment, ensure compliance, and be fully prepared for the busy spring season, avoiding costly downtime and ensuring optimal treatment performance.

Gas Leak? Take Action!
12/30/2025

Gas Leak? Take Action!

By Sandra Kraft and Larry Pinto with Pinto & Associates, Inc.

In this article, Sandra Kraft and Larry Pinto provide essential guidance for pest management technicians on how to safely respond to natural gas and propane hazards during service calls. From recognizing the odor of mercaptan added to detect leaks, to handling older appliances and connectors safely, they outline critical steps to protect yourself, your customers, and others. The article emphasizes immediate evacuation, avoiding ignition sources, and contacting emergency responders, giving technicians clear, actionable instructions for managing gas emergencies in homes and buildings.

MSPCA Wraps Up 2025 with Annual Dinner and Board Meeting
12/30/2025

MSPCA Wraps Up 2025 with Annual Dinner and Board Meeting

The MSPCA 2025 Annual Dinner and Board Meeting was a night to remember! Held on November 19 at Pinstripes in North Bethesda, the evening combined great food, fun games of bocce, and meaningful association updates—and all MSPCA members were welcome to join, not just the Board. If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for next year—you won’t want to miss the celebration, networking, and energy that carry MSPCA into 2026!

Get Ready for the Interstate Pest Management Conference (IPMC) 2025!
12/30/2025

Get Ready for the Interstate Pest Management Conference (IPMC) 2025!

The Interstate Pest Management Conference (IPMC) 2025 is the must-attend event for pest management professionals seeking to expand their skills, grow their business, and connect with industry leaders. Over two action-packed days, attendees can dive into technical Pest Management sessions and Turf & Ornamental sessions—both offering recertification credits—and, new this year, gain practical strategies through Business Building Blocks. Attendees will also explore a full exhibit hall of top vendors and network with peers from across the industry. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your expertise, boost operational efficiency, or build a stronger team, IPMC 2025 delivers the tools, knowledge, and connections to take your business to the next level. Register by January 9th to get the best current pricing!

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit
12/30/2025

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit

Money saving discounts for MSPCA Members

MSPCA members can take advantage of Savings4Members, a valuable cost-saving program designed to help businesses reduce operating expenses and boost their bottom line. Through this benefit, members gain access to exclusive discounts and pre-negotiated pricing with national vendors across essential categories—including credit card processing, payroll and HR services, office supplies, fuel, shipping, uniforms, and more—enabling savings on everyday business needs. A dedicated team of Savings Consultants works with members to identify and activate the most beneficial programs for their operations, making it easy to cut costs, streamline processes, and reinvest savings back into growing the business.

MDA Presents During IPMC - Get Answers to Your Regulatory Questions Answered!
12/30/2025

MDA Presents During IPMC - Get Answers to Your Regulatory Questions Answered!

News & Announcements

During the Interstate Pest Management Conference, the Maryland Department of Agriculture will present a regulatory update offering an overview of current regulatory requirements impacting the pest management industry, along with any recent or upcoming changes professionals should be aware of.

This article also provides an update on the outcome of clarification from MDA regarding the requirement to include a diagram as part of the MD-1, helping inspectors better understand compliance expectations.

Registration is Open! Attend Interstate Pest Management Conference 2026
11/23/2025

Registration is Open! Attend Interstate Pest Management Conference 2026

Pest Control | Turf & Ornamental | Business Management Tracks

Call for Session & Speaker Recommendations for IPMC
10/31/2025

Call for Session & Speaker Recommendations for IPMC

MSPCA will present the Interstate Pest Management Conference in Linthicum Heights, MD on January 28th and 29th. As always, we will feature a pest management track of sessions that mirror each other on both days, we will add a Turf and Ornamental track on the 29th. New this year will be a business management track, call Business Building Blocks & Connections. If you have ideas for technical pest management, turf and ornamental, and/or business development sessions or speakers, please click below to submit suggestions ASAP!

Poland Recognized for Service to MSPCA during PestWorld
10/31/2025

Poland Recognized for Service to MSPCA during PestWorld

MSPCA Executive Staff and MSPCA President tracked down Kevin Poland during PestWorld to present him with a plaque of appreciation for his service to MSPCA as a Director and Past President of the organization. Kevin recently took on a new position with Turner Pest which meant relocating his family to Florida. His departure was so quick this Spring that we didn't have the opportunity to thank him in-person for all the support and leadership he has provided to MSPCA. It was great to get the opportunity at PestWorld!

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit
10/31/2025

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit

Money saving discounts at FiSERVE, ADP Security, and ACE Hardware

MSPCA partners with Savings4Members (S4M) to connect our member businesses with savings on essential products and services through exclusive vendor partnerships. Through this program members of MSPCA have access to trusted vendors like FiServe, ADP and ACE Hardware.

MDA Provides Key Updates on Pesticide Regulation, Certification, and Enforcement
10/31/2025

MDA Provides Key Updates on Pesticide Regulation, Certification, and Enforcement

News & Announcements

The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Pesticide Regulation Section recently presented its 2026 Pesticide Regulation Update, highlighting several important changes that will affect licensed pest control professionals statewide. MDA outlined updates to certification procedures, new federal rules, enforcement priorities, and digital service improvements.

10/08/2025

Call for Speakers for the 2026 IPMC

Share your knowledge!

MSPCA is looking for dynamic speakers to present interesting and valuable technical training in general pest, wood-destroying pest, rodent, public health, and turf & ornamental topics. MSPCA is happy to be adding the Business Building Blocks add-on on Jan. 29, 2026.This expanding program is designed for owners, managers, sales teams, CSRs, and other administrators of pest management companies. Do you have a session aimed at helping PMP companies grow?

MSPCA Welcomes Joleen Matthews to the Board of Directors
08/27/2025

MSPCA Welcomes Joleen Matthews to the Board of Directors

In our last MSPCA Closer Look eNewsletter, we shared that Kevin Poland, who had just begun serving as the President of MSPCA is following a new career opportunity that will require him to relocate to Florida. As Kevin prepared to turn the reins of presidency over to Brett Lieberman, the board wrestled with the need to fill Kevin's Board seat and who a good candidate might be. Kevin proffered several names, but one stood out for her efforts as she has already been working diligently to support MSPCA behind the scenes through committee work. At the August 15th MSPCA Board meeting, the Board elected Joleen Matthews as a director. Please click below to learn more about Joleen's passion for the pest management industry and her decade of experience.

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit
08/21/2025

MSPCA Savings4Members - A Value-Added Member Benefit

Money saving discounts at ACE Hardware, ODP, Staples, and UniFirst

MSPCA partners with Savings4Members (S4M) to connect our member businesses with savings on essential products and services through exclusive vendor partnerships. Through this program members of MSPCA have access to trusted vendors like ACE Hardware, ODP, Staples, and UniFirst through Savings4Members.These programs offer savings on essentials like tools, uniforms, office products, and facility services. With exclusive pricing and reliable service, members can streamline operations and reduce costs. Click below to learn more.

Maryland Department of Agriculture
08/20/2025

Maryland Department of Agriculture

News & Announcements

All Commercial and Public Agency licenses have now EXPIRED. Please ensure that you hold a valid license showing an expiration date of June 30, 2026. The Pesticide Regulation Section is undergoing a complete overhaul of our licensing database. Some downtime is expected during the data transfer. MDA asks for patience as they strive to enhance online capabilities. If you need assistance, please reach out to MDA at pest.reg@maryland.gov or call 410-841-5710 for assistance.

MSPCA Member Benefit: College Funding for Students
05/17/2025

MSPCA Member Benefit: College Funding for Students

MSPCA Members, Family & Employees are Eligible

All MSPCA members, their children, their employees and their employees' children can apply for a $1,000 scholarship to support their university studies as a full-time student. The deadline to apply is June 16, 2025. Up to two scholarships will be awarded by early August! Spread the word to your family and your employees.

03/17/2020

MSPCA Special Alert: Coronavirus & Essential Services

Over the past several days as more information on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is being disseminated by the federal, state and local governments, there has been a push to classify industries as essential or non-essential. Those deemed as essential can continue to operate as more quarantines and restrictions are put in place.

MSPCA Savings4Members
06/09/2019

MSPCA Savings4Members

MSPCA partnered with Savings4Members to provide you with access to cost savings programs to help you spend less time worrying about expenses; so you can focus on customers, sales, and running your business. Through Savings4Members you have access to various discounts with national vendors to help you buy and save on products and services you use every day.

09/17/2018

Western-MD Webinar - Recertification Training 2025

Earn CEUs and get great pest control training!

Fred Neil Scholarship Applications
09/07/2018

Fred Neil Scholarship Applications

This scholarship is available only to children or employees of eligible member firms.