Interview with Nathan Shook

Pest Controller, Recycling Coordinator and RMW COR @ Northern Arizona VA Health Care System

In this interview, we speak with a Pest Controller, Recycling Coordinator, and Regulated Medical Waste Coordinator at the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System about their experiences with Goodnature traps. Initially chosen to address a persistent rock squirrel and pack rat problem, these traps have proven highly effective across a 200-acre campus. With an initial deployment of 15-20 traps, now reduced to 5 or 6, the VA has seen significant results within three months. Despite some challenges, including employee resistance and the need for strategic trap placement, the overall benefits—time savings, cost-effectiveness, and safety—have made Goodnature traps an essential part of their pest management strategy. This professional highly recommends Goodnature traps to other facility managers facing similar rodent issues.

Why did you initially choose Goodnature traps?
We had an ongoing rock squirrel and pack rat issue at the VA that I work at. I had seen these traps advertised and they looked like a great solution to our problem.

Can you please describe the areas where you're having success with your Goodnature traps?
Everywhere! Within 3 months every hot spot on a 200 acre campus had been addressed and resolved.

How many A24's and A18's do you now have deployed?
Only about 5 or 6. At one point we had around 15 – 20 deployed. Problem has been reduced under the threshold.

What (if any) other rodent and squirrel control methods had you tried at your trapping site prior to A24 and A18 deployment?
Have used a few bait stations, snap traps and haveaheart live traps.

How long did it take for you to see results with Goodnature traps?
In 3 months we saw a dramatic reduction.

What were any challenges you encountered with Goodnature traps?
We had a few employees that were not so welcoming to euthanizing the squirrels so they would remove the traps. At first we had to move them around to where they were most effective. Also, had to move to more inconspicuous areas so they were not tampered with. We did have to experiment a little with bait options. All and all, the challenges were minimal.

How often do you check the traps you've installed?
Several times daily due to the type of environment we are in being a VA hospital.

What do you see as the primary benefit of the Goodnature trapping systems?
Time savings due to effectiveness. No risk of cross contamination. And cost effective.

Would you recommend the product for other facility managers with similar rodent issues?

Yes, I would absolutely recommend these Goodnature traps.

One of the most innovative, safe, and effective products I have used as part of an integrated pest management plan. A great tool to have in any pest professionals arsenal.