A study has just been completed of pesticide usage in three sectors of the commercial pest control industry--tree, lawn and structural. This study was funded by the EPA and was jointly sponsored by the three trade associations representing these sectors and the Association of American Pesticide Control Officials. A total of 2,838 firms in the industry responded to the survey by providing data for the year 1981. They represented all regions of the country, and all firm sizes. The sample included firms belonging to the cooperating trade associations and other firms as well. About one out of every three eligible businesses from individual state licensing lists was included in the sample. All states except North Dakota and Alaska participated. Sample selection was in accordance with a probability-based design permitting valid statistical inferences for each industry sector and geographical region. Respondent eligibility criteria are indicative of the scope of the survey. A business was eligible if it--(1) was on a state licensing list, (2) was in business in 1981, (3) provided commercial pest control services, and (4) did not provide strictly agricultural pest control services.

"April 13, 1984." "RTI/2764/08-01F."