Criteria for assessing efficacy of stand-alone termite bait treatments at structures

Evaluation methods and criteria used to assess field efficacy of stand alon e termite bait programs are described and compared. The four criteria exami ned are: 1) alate numbers; 2) activity on termiticidal baits; 3) monitors a ctive prior to baiting; 4) post-treatment monitors (placed after termiticid al baiting). The justification, complexities and ambiguities, and interpret ation of each criterion are discussed. Even apparent "success" of termite b aiting, meaning sustained absence of termites in all four evaluation contex ts, should be interpreted with caution and a commitment to continued monito ring for any signs of termite activity. Given current termite detection, in spection, and monitoring techniques, a zero tolerance framework, although c onservative, is an appropriately cautious approach to termite control throu gh baiting.