WASHINGTON, D.C.— The U.S. Capitol building, home to the government’s House of Representatives and Senate, is now being protected from termites with the Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System with Always Active technology.

Since 1793, the U.S. Capitol building has stood as a symbol of American government and politics. During its two centuries, it has been burnt, rebuilt, expanded and restored. The historic domed building also has had to stand up to termite infestation.

Recent subterranean termite activity dates back to 2002, when termites were swarming inside the building. It was feared that the infestation was severe, so scientists from the Agricultural Research Service were called in to investigate the species of termite. It was discovered to be Reticulitermes virginicus, a native subterranean species. Liquid chemical treatments were applied to the soil, and termite-damaged wood baseboards were replaced — but to no avail. 

In August 2011, the Sentricon System with Always Active technology was installed. Always Active technology makes the new Recruit HD termite bait immediately available to termites in all stations. Requiring nearly a decade of research to develop, this highly durable and highly dense bait is able to stand up to harsh inground conditions for multiple years and has been proven preferable to termites over wood, according to Dow AgroSciences.

The U.S. Capitol building joins other historic sites being protected by the Sentricon System, including the White House, the Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Ellis Island, My Old Kentucky Home and ‘Iolani Palace in Honolulu. In fact, millions of properties have chosen to be protected by the Sentricon System.