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Rodent Control & Public Education
ABOUT THE RODENT CONTROL PROGRAM
Rats have always been present in cities and are a fact of urban life. However, they are present because of human activities, and thus it is possible to reduce their numbers by working together as a community to modify our habits. Mayor Cahill’s Office, the Health Department, and other City Departments are working together with residents, business owners, and community groups to promote a better understanding of rat behavior and how to minimize their presence.
As part of our commitment to mitigating rodent activity, the City of Beverly is launching a pilot program with Modern Pest Services to bring the latest rodent-control technology to our city and evaluate its effectiveness. From January through June 2023 we will install and service 28 SMART Boxes in different areas of Beverly. SMART Box placement areas have been determined by data collected through Beverly’s 311 Service Request system (also known as QAlert and Report an Issue) and site visits conducted with Modern Pest.
REPORTING A RODENT ISSUE
If you notice any evidence of rodent activity on your property, contact a professional exterminator to properly eradicate the issue. Exterminators can be found in the local phone book or online. Ask to see proof of Massachusetts state licensure for pest control before you sign a service contract.
- Report a rodent or health concern to the City by using the MyBeverly 311 Service Request system:
- Online at beverlyma.gov - under the photo banner, click on the “Report An Issue” button
- Using the MyBeverly app - available for Android and Apple users
- Call the Health Department (978-921-8591) or the Constituent Services Office (978-605-2382)
If you can give specific information as to where you suspect rodents are feeding or burrowing, that is extremely helpful.
Use the "Report an Issue" button below and select "Rodents" to report rat sightings.
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Combat the Rat
The North Shore Shared Public Health Services Program created an informational flyer titled, “Combat the Rat,” that we consider our first line of defense in preventing rodents from becoming an issue on your property.
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Identify a Rodent
I saw a rodent in the City. How do I know if it is a rat?
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Identifying a (Rodent) Issue
What evidence might I see if rats or other rodents are on my property?
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Preventing a Rodent Issue
Prevention is key! Keeping your home free from rodents is all about prevention and exclusion. Don't give them a place to live and food to eat!
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Report a Rodent Sighting
If you notice any evidence of rodent activity on your property, contact a professional exterminator to properly eradicate the issue. Exterminators can be found in the local phone book or online. Ask to see proof of Massachusetts state licensure for pest control before you sign a service contract. Report a rodent or health concern to the City by using the MyBeverly 311 Service Request system or the MyBeverly app - free for both Androids and iPhones. Call the Health Department (978-921-8591) or the Constituent Services Office (978-605-2382)
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Smart Boxes
SMART Boxes are non-toxic trapping units that catch rodents above ground. When a rodent enters the trap, sensors detect movement and body heat. The City and Modern Pest (contracted pest management company) selected four diverse, strategic areas of the city for a pilot program using data from the MyBeverly Service Request data and Inspectional Services ticketing information.
QUESTIONS?
Please contact:
- City of Beverly Health Department at (978) 921-8591
- Constituent Services at (978) 605-2382
- The Executive Office, Chief of Staff at (978) 605-2334