Southern states labeled the “Fire Ant 13” know too well the fury imposed by the voracious fire ant. While most residents who live with fire ants think of the pest as merely a nuisance, few realize the serious public health threat that lurks right below ground. So, in 2005, Bayer Environmental Science (Bayer ES), embarked on a 13-state educational tour to provide consumers with the knowledge necessary to protect their families and pets. The campaign consisted of fire ant awareness days, free TopChoice donations, and local event sponsorships.
In Jacksonville, Fla., Bayer ES representatives, along with local lawn care operators (LCO) and fire ant crusader, Captain TopChoice, worked with the office of Mayor John Peyton and proclaimed “Fire Ant Awareness Day.”
Mayor Peyton said, “The city of Jacksonville wants to raise awareness in our community and contribute to the quality of life of its citizens. I urge all to join in the national effort to raise awareness and help prevent fire ant infestation and damage.”
Bayer ES also donated TopChoice fire ant control to the baseball grounds and sponsored a Jacksonville Suns game. Captain TopChoice was present at the game, where he appeared on the “fire ant-free” field to throw the first pitch. Children interacted with the fire ant-fighting superhero, while parents were armed with valuable fire ant tips and LCO contact information.
In Plano, Texas, Bayer coordinated with Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Scott Johnson and Plano YMCA vice president of operations, Tim Stitzer, to keep a popular public playing area for kids fire ant free. On July 7, Top Choice fire ant control was donated and applied to protect children and adults who frequently use the grounds and athletic fields for outdoor activities.
By attracting the attention of consumer and trade media, as well as through direct contact, Bayer was able to reach more than 73,251,149 consumers to date with fire ant prevention tips and information.
Below is a list of other TopChoice donations and sponsorships, which took place this season – to name a few.
• Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Ga.
• Marshall Fire Ant Festival, Texas
• New Orleans Zephyrs Field, La.
• Savannah Sand Gnats Field, Ga.
• Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, Charleston, S.C.
• Whitewater Park, Rudy’s Termite & Pest Control, Rancho Mirage, Calif.
• Atlanta PAWS, Top Turf, Decatur, Ga.
• 2005 Clarksville Hydroplane Challenge, Va.
For more information, visit www.topchoicetools.com or contact your local field sales representative.