The vertebrate pest control industry has been steadily raising standards in both the effectiveness of its pest control work and safety standards for its workers, for the general public and for non-target species.
Specialised training is now increasingly required by the agencies who contract out vertebrate pest control work. People in the industry must also have a thorough knowledge of the numerous regulations and requirements that govern such aspects as animal welfare, safe handling of toxic substances and environmental risk management.
Check out the links below or scroll down for options of accreditation and training.
Anyone undertaking contract possum monitoring work for possum control agencies must be an approved operator under an accreditation scheme administered by NPCA (National Possum Control Agencies) on behalf of the possum control Industry.
Anyone is able to trap possums on their personal property in New Zealand but there are certifications and best practice guides which will allow you to do this with confidence.
The vertebrate pest control industry has been steadily raising standards in both the effectiveness of its pest control work and safety standards for its workers. Find out more about studying for a Masters of Pest Management here.
Biosecurity New Zealand and the Department of Conservation, have developed a learning tool to help people all over New Zealand identify suspected myrtle rust infections in their backyards and reserves.
Available training opportunties include:
Skills in possum population monitoring are needed so that agencies responsible for possum control:
The Quality Assurance process must be designed specifically for the area involved. Agencies usually contract out both the designing and monitoring work and require that the contractors be qualified as monitors or designers.
For more information on these courses check out the Possum Monitoring courses page.
Various short courses and workshop training opportunities in such aspects as bush craft and practical pest control are periodically offered throughout the country by such organisations as polytechnics, the Department of Conservation and regional councils. Many of these opportunities are ideal for private landowners and volunteer groups who carry out their own vertebrate pest control.