The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures has an active Vertebrate Control Program that focuses on education and outreach to local growers and ranchers regarding how to control ground squirrels and other vertebrate pests detrimental to agriculture and public health.

The Department acts as an informational resource for both agriculturalists and the public dealing with various vertebrate pests. There are considerable challenges for growers and landowners faced with vertebrate pests, including the loss of registration for many previously used rodenticides, increased ecological concerns, and increased pesticide regulations. The Department’s Pesticide Use Enforcement staff can help answer questions regarding available control options and assist growers in remaining compliant with shifting regulatory requirements when using rodenticides.

Through a collaborative effort with the University of California Cooperative Extension and others, the Department hosts an annual workshop detailing the latest ground squirrel control methods. Items covered typically include squirrel biology, developing an integrated pest management plan, and current regulatory requirements. The workshop also offers Continuing Education hours for Private Applicators and other licensed individuals.

CLICK HERE TO REVIEW INFORMATION ON THE OCTOBER 2021 WORKSHOP
The Department anticipates hosting another annual workshop in fall 2022. Details will be added here as the workshop date gets closer.

The Department no longer sells California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) labeled oat groat based rodenticide baits: 0.01% Chlorophacinone, (a broadcast/scattered bait) and 0.005% Diphacinone (used in bait stations). However, both of those baits are available for purchase – for properly registered and certified growers - through the Kings County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office.