Sector

02 July 2025

Pest control professionals flock to BASF farm training day

PRESS RELEASE

Pest control professionals from across the UK travelled to Hurcott Farm, Somerset, to take part in BASF’s second 'Great Day on the Farm' – an immersive, full-day training event delivered in partnership with Killgerm Chemicals.

basf-on-the-farm-day-success-hero

Designed to equip rural pest controllers with practical, real-world skills, the day featured a packed agenda of hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and expert-led talks.

From mole trapping techniques and grain store baiting, to proofing demonstrations and covered and protected baiting strategies, the training provided delegates with a breadth of actionable knowledge tailored to agricultural settings.

Attendees also received guidance on Environmental Risk Assessments and how to apply integrated pest management approaches, both vital to minimise harm to non-target species – a key focus in rural pest control where risks such as secondary poisoning are heightened.

A strong line-up of respected industry experts shaped the day’s agenda, featuring Tim Bloomer and Alastair Fernie from Killgerm, BASF’s Alex Wade, Duncan Bosomworth from the National Pest Technicians Society, and mole expert Dave Archer.

A live Q&A with compliance manager Kate Cross provided an in-depth look at Red Tractor assurance standards.

The session offered essential guidance on compliance while also giving pest controllers the opportunity to share feedback that could help shape future specifications.

Those with a CRRU-approved rodent control certificate left with a 3kg tub of Selontra and 3kg of Monitoring Paste, ensuring they could immediately implement the strategies discussed.

Delegates also gained CPD points and took home a goody bag of Killgerm & BASF merchandise. 

Laurence Barnard, Country Business Manager for BASF Professional and Specialty Solutions, commented: “The atmosphere at Hurcott Farm was incredible. These sessions allow pest controllers to gain hands-on experience and collaborate in a way that virtual training simply can’t replicate.

"The rural setting gave us a perfect stage to demonstrate the real-life challenges and solutions in the field.”

Guests were well looked after, with breakfast and a hearty hamburger lunch, and ice-cream in the afternoon to help keep energy levels high throughout the day.

Attendees were quick to share their feedback on social media.

Pest controller, Tony Reed raved: “Probably the best training day I have ever attended with a good variety of topics and plenty of discussion. The catering and venue was also excellent.”

Members of the Guardian Pest Control, who also attended, commented: “It was one of the best training day’s we’ve ever been on – and there’s been a fair few!”  

Laurence added: “Following the huge success of our inaugural event last year, it was always going to be tough to top, but the feedback has been even better.

"Pest controllers are clearly calling for more practical, face-to-face training opportunities – and we’re proud to be delivering exactly that. It’s not just about skills, but about connection and collaboration across the industry.”

GOT AN EVENT TO PLUG?

If you've got an open invite to a pest control event that you want to shout about, let us know.

hello@bpca.org.uk

Source: BASF press release

Highlights View all news

06 June 2025

Latest news

Results are in: meet your new BPCA Board representatives 2025

Six new Member Directors have been chosen to help lead the Association and represent the interests of BPCA members at the highest level.

Read more

02 May 2025

Latest news

Full steam ahead for entry-Level 3 qualifications on BPCA Qualifications Framework

BPCA has committed to developing new Level 3 pest management qualifications as part of a new industry qualification framework.

Read more

24 March 2025

Latest news

Professional Pest Controller issue 118 (PPC118) out now

PPC118 is out now and packed full of great content.

Read more
Latest View all news

02 July 2025

Latest news

Pest control professionals flock to BASF farm training day

Press release: Pest control professionals from across the UK travelled to Hurcott Farm, Somerset, to take part an immersive, full-day training event.

Read more

26 June 2025

Latest news

Join BPCA's Qualifications Framework working groups

BPCA is looking for volunteers to join two working groups, to help develop new qualifications for the future framework.

Read more

26 June 2025

Latest news

BASF renews Mental Health survey to uncover ongoing challenges in pest control

Press release: BASF, has launched its second annual mental health survey, continuing its mission to better understand and support the wellbeing of pest controllers across the UK.

Read more