Pest Controller, Recycling Coordinator & RMW COR @ Northern Arizona VA Health Care System
In this interview, we speak with a Pest Controller, Recycling Coordinator, and Regulated Medical Waste Coordinator at the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System about their experiences with Goodnature traps. Originally brought in to deal with a persistent rock squirrel and pack rat problem, the traps proved effective across a 200-acre campus. They started with 15–20 traps, then scaled down to 5–6 once pressure dropped — all within about three months. Despite some challenges (mainly trap tampering and finding the best locations), the time savings, safety, and cost-effectiveness made Goodnature an important part of their IPM program.
Why did you initially choose Goodnature traps?
We had an ongoing rock squirrel and pack rat issue at the VA that I work at. I had seen these traps advertised and they looked like a great solution to our problem.
Can you describe the areas where you're having success?
Everywhere! Within 3 months every hot spot on a 200-acre campus had been addressed and resolved.
How many A24s and A18s do you now have deployed?
Only about 5 or 6. At one point we had around 15–20 deployed. Problem has been reduced under the threshold.
What other rodent/squirrel control methods had you tried before Goodnature?
We had used a few bait stations, snap traps, and Havahart live traps.
How long did it take to see results?
In 3 months we saw a dramatic reduction.
What challenges did you encounter?
We had a few employees who were not so welcoming to euthanizing the squirrels so they would remove the traps. At first we had to move them around to where they were most effective, and into more inconspicuous areas so they were not tampered with. We also had to experiment a bit with bait. All in all, the challenges were minimal.
How often do you check the traps?
Several times daily due to the type of environment we are in — a VA hospital.
What do you see as the primary benefit?
Time savings due to effectiveness. No risk of cross-contamination. And cost-effective.
Would you recommend the product for other facility managers?
Yes, I would absolutely recommend these Goodnature traps. One of the most innovative, safe, and effective products I have used as part of an integrated pest management plan. A great tool to have in any pest professional’s arsenal.