Recently, students at Saint Anselm College, particularly those in Falvey House, have voiced concerns about increased rodent activity. However, the issue isn’t limited to one dorm—multiple areas across campus have been affected. The college’s rural location and unpredictable weather—extreme cold and wet conditions—have driven rodents indoors, seeking warmth and food. While rodents are a natural part of the environment, Physical Plant and its contracted pest control team, Pest-End, are actively working to manage the situation. 

It’s important to note that rodent control is not a new challenge for Saint Anselm College or other college campuses. With 53 individual buildings, pest control is something that Physical Plant plans for annually, addressing everything from mice and wildlife to cockroaches and ticks. The pest control approach is tailored to each area, ensuring safety in dining halls and residential spaces while using different treatments for peripheral areas where contact with students and staff is less likely. 

Many students are then wondering what is being done about rodents in Falvey House. Several remedial measures have already been implemented, as Falvey has been a primary focus, including sealing gaps and holes in the building’s foundation, installing and monitoring bait stations and traps, and facilitating ongoing visits from pest control professionals to ensure effectiveness. While it’s undoubtedly a gross, unfavorable situation, it’s important to remember that rodent eradication doesn’t happen overnight. The process requires ongoing treatment, monitoring, and student cooperation to ensure long-term success. 

While pest control teams are taking action, students play a critical role in keeping living spaces clean and unappealing to rodents. Keeping our living spaces clean and pest-free is a shared effort, and small changes can make a big difference. If you’ve noticed an increase in rodent activity, you’re certainly not alone. Fortunately, there are some simple steps we can all take to help reduce the chances of pests sticking around. One of the easiest ways to deter rodents is to vacuum regularly and clean up any food debris—this removes potential temptations. It also helps to store food properly by using sealed, sturdy containers, including for pet food if you have a service or support animal. Another good habit is to avoid leaving food or drinks out overnight, since even something as small as a coffee cup or an open pizza box can attract pests. Trash disposal also plays a big role. Taking garbage to the dumpster regularly—rather than leaving

bags in rooms, common areas, or outside apartments—helps keep rodents from venturing closer to living spaces. Similarly, reducing clutter can make a difference, as rodents tend to hide in dark, cramped areas, so keeping dorms tidy makes it harder for them to find shelter. Wiping down surfaces, especially in kitchens and food prep areas, also helps to maintain a clean environment. 

If treatment is already underway in your area, your efforts are still important! Keeping up with these habits while pest control measures are in place ensures that they work as effectively as possible. Additionally, pest control devices should be left where they are—they’ve been strategically placed, and moving them could interfere with the process. And of course, if you see any signs of rodent activity, don’t hesitate to report it. The sooner an issue is addressed, the better. By working together, students and staff can create a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable living environment. Your cooperation makes a difference, and Physical Plant appreciates the efforts of the entire community in helping tackle this issue!