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106
RODENT CONTROL
During the year a total of 1,587 infestations of rats or mice were
dealt with; a reduction of 342 on the previous year. The rodent operatives
in the course of the work involved in dealing with these infestations made
8,203 visits and, in addition, undertook surveys and the treatment of
particular sites such as Old Redding and the local watercourses.
The sewers in the district were baited at selected points and, of 160
manholes dealt with, 20 were found to be infested.
During 1967, by reason of the difficulties experienced in obtaining the
services of rodent operatives, the treatment of infestations in parts of the
Borough was placed in the hands of a contractor. This continued throughout
the year and the arrangement, whereby some of the infestation work is
undertaken by Council-employed operatives and some by a private
contractor, has proved to be very satisfactory. Greater mobility (the
contractor uses a van, with the advantage of better facilities for the
carrying of materials and equipment, against cycles (2) and a motor cycle)
has revealed the benefit of easy movement which, in turn, has often enabled
the contract service to be given more quickly and often more effectively.
Retirements in the coming year may make it necessary to either
extend the area covered on a contract basis, or compel consideration being
given to improved forms of transport being provided for the operatives
employed by the Council.
The following graph illustrates the complaints received month by
month throughout the year:—