Social Media Summary: 

Through teamwork and expertise, UCCE Orange County, local pest control business and industry resolved a mouse infestation, showcasing sustainable pest management, community collaboration, and the importance of giving back. 

The Issue: 
Gary Hayakawa, veteran, and long-time advocate for UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), faced a mouse infestation at his home. Rodent management is a pervasive issue in urban environments, posing significant risks to health and property. Addressing structural deficiencies and mitigating rodent issues required both expertise and collaboration. 

How UC Delivers: 
Niamh Quinn, Human-Wildlife Interactions Advisor and expert in vertebrate pest management, conducted a thorough inspection of Hayakawa's home and identified structural vulnerabilities that allowed rodent access. Recognizing the need for specialized skills and materials, Niamh collaborated with other dedicated experts. 

Xcluder, a leader in exclusion materials, generously donated all the necessary supplies for sealing entry points. Newport Exterminating, led by Pest Control Manager Dean Wiley, installed the exclusion materials at no cost to Hayakawa. The team worked diligently to ensure the home was effectively fortified against future rodent incursions. 

“Exclusion is such an important part of long-term success when it comes to mouse management. It's a more permanent solution that aligns with protecting California's natural resources and promoting healthy communities,” Quinn said, adding that her collaboration with Xcluder and Newport Exterminating is what made this a huge success.  

She also highlighted the expertise of Jose Cano, Service Manager at Newport Exterminating, who was also trained at the West Coast Rodent Academy:  

“Jose, is one of the best rat guys I know. He was great even before passing through the Rodent Academy. Newport Exterminating has always been supportive of my research and extension programs, so they were top of my list for collaboration.” 

The Impact: 

Jose Cano & Dean Wiley of Newport Exterminating

Agreeing with Quinn, Wiley also praised the specialized training participants receive at the West Coast Rodent Academy.  

“Partnering with Niamh and UCCE allowed us to make a real difference for Gary while supporting sustainable pest management. It's also part of our mission to give back to the community, including supporting veterans. This project reflects our commitment to serving others,” said Wiley, emphasizing that giving back to someone who served to protect his country was a “no brainer.” 

Hayakawa expressed his gratitude, saying, “This experience reinforced my belief in the essential role UCCE plays in our community. Their proactive approach and ability to bring the right people together made all the difference. They were my first point of contact for this issue because I knew that they would be able to point me in the direction of the right resources. I knew my problem would get resolved, but I did not expect this level of generosity, and I am so grateful.” 

Hayakawa's advocacy for UCCE spans decades, including his pivotal role in preserving UCCE's presence in Orange County during budget challenges in 1992. His leadership then—and now—continues to demonstrate the value of UCCE's programs in addressing local needs and fostering community partnerships. 

This is but one example of how UCCE can improve community health and wellness by reducing exposures to rodent pests and associated diseases while also limiting exposure to rodenticides.