Mercury Termite and Pest Control was the winner of the 2012 Fumigation Banner Bonanza Contest, sponsored by PCOC and Dow AgroSciences.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC) and Dow AgroSciences, manufacturer of Vikane gas fumigant, announced the winners of the ninth annual Fumigation Banner Bonanza Contest. The contest recognizes California fumigators for promoting fumigation through easy-to-read, professional and creative signs at fumigation sites.

This year’s first-place prize was awarded to Mercury Termite and Pest Control of Covina, Calif. The winning banner features a cartoon drawing of different pests, as well as the logos for Vikane and National Pest Management Association (NPMA). The banner has been in use for about two months, and the artwork on it was commissioned about 20 years ago.

Owner Dan Rutherford says he and his staff are thrilled Mercury Termite and Pest Control won the contest. “It’s fantastic,” he says. “I have entered this contest before, but never won. I’m really happy about it.”

Judges commented that the banner was creative and eye-catching, and they appreciated the use of the logos for Vikane and NPMA. Rutherford says he feels it’s important to have the Vikane logo on his company’s banner.

“I only use Vikane . That’s all I have ever used for about 25 years,” he says. “When I tell people there are companies that use other fumigants, I make it a point to state that Vikane has been manufactured for more than 50 years. If I have issues on a job, I know who to contact. That information is important to me, and the customers have a good response to that.” Finishing in second place was Thrasher Termite and Pest Control of Los Gatos, Calif. Taking third was a banner from Suncrest Exterminating in Anaheim, Calif. Borite Termite and Pest Treatments, based in Sherman Oaks, Calif., earned fourth place.

Participating fumigation companies submitted color photos of their banners, which included their business name, logo and contact information. A panel of communications specialists judged the banners on readability from a distance, professionalism, visual impact and attractiveness. Pest control companies with the winning banners will be given prizes in the following amounts: first place, $1,250; second, $1,000; third; $500; and fourth, $250.

“We’re happy to again have the opportunity to sponsor PCOC’s contest as a way to help our fumigator partners build their businesses and promote industry efforts to educate homeowners on the need for professional fumigation services,” says Justin Stewart, Dow AgroSciences product manager for Vikane gas fumigant.

For more information about fumigation with Vikane , visit www.TermiteTenting.com.