References

United States Department of Interior
National Park Service

In September 2001, Knife River Indian Villages contracted the services of Precision Environmental Inc. to perform Thermal Pest Eradication services to a structure located within the park. The structure in question was replicated Hidatsa Indian earthlodge constructed in 1994 that was infested with powder post beetles. Thermal Post Eradication was a new endeavor for the park and performing this service on a structure of this type was also for Precision Environmental.

The powder post beetles were identified in 1995, however research showed that the beetles typically run a 7 year life cycle in the timber type located with in the earthlodge. In July of 2001, it was decided to take action to remedy the beetle problem, which had not diminished as expected. Numerous options were considered and the park settled on the non-chemical, thermal eradication.

Since the park staff had very little experience with thermal eradication, the assistance of Mr. David Hedman was enlisted. Mr. Hedman was more than willing to provide input, conduct research and recommend methods for completing the erdication servic. The effort and information put forth by Mr. Hedman was a tremendous help and crucial to the park's decision to continue with thermal eradication method.

A contract was place on bids and awarded to Precision Environmental Inc. A block of dates was selected in which the contract could be completed. Mr. Hedman coordinated a date for the treatment that was the least disruptive to park functions although it meant altering some of his other obligations. Mr. Hedman along with Mr. Chris Dittmar arrived at the park, set up their equipment and were ready to go in a timely fashion. Mr. Hedman slated the project to be completed in one day so as not to interfere with groups of visitors attending the park. The project, was completed in one day while meeting or exceeding the desired specifications at no extra cost to the park and with minimal interference to park operations.

Mr. Hedman and Mr. Dittmar were extremely professional when dealing with both visitors and park staff. Their attention to detail was extreme where insertion of temperature probes and preservation of the structure was concerned. The knowledge and skill possessed by these two men allowed them to do a very thorough job in the required time frame while at the same time being courteous and accommodating to visitors and park staff alike.

The expert work that was completed in an extremely professional manner would allow me to recommend Precision Environmental Inc. to other manager within the National Park Services.

Rod Skalsky
Acting Facility Manager