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.
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.”
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Source: BASF press release