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36
14. RODENT AND INSECT PEST CONTROL.
During the year under review, the volume and character of the work
has been similar to that of previous years. Householders still provide
harbourage for rodents in their gardens by hoarding old furniture,
perambulators and other rubbish. The Corporation have provided a free
service for the collection of domestic rubbish, including perambulators,
mattresses and unwanted furniture, provided reasonable notice is given
and the accumulation is not excessive. It would appear that ratepayers
do not take sufficient advantage of this service.
Thirty-six vertical block control schemes were carried out,
together with four treatments of sewer control. Ten defects of sewers
and drains were found which had been the cause of rat infestation.
Rodent control in sewers is now carried out more economically by
treating more frequently known areas of persistent infestation in the
system. The percentage method previously used has, by experience, been
proved to be unnecessary.
The pest control service provided on a contract basis to the
industrial and commercial interests in the town is appreciated and an
efficient and readily available control has been maintained. The
Authority's service is held in esteem by the officers of the Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. During the year instructions and
demonstrations were given to 74 colonial students and field officers.
We on our part readily acknowledge the co-operation of the officers of
the Ministry, particularly with regard to identification of unusual
inserts.