Property owners urged to watch out for termites

State authorities are urging builders and homeowners to take steps to prevent the spread of termites as they rebuild after Hurricane Isaac.

Agriculture and Forestry Secretary Mike Strain said residents can contact the Department of Agriculture and Forestry at 225-925-4578 to be sure the pesticide company they hire is certified and licensed.

Treatments and annual inspections are recommended. Between inspections, Strain said property owners should periodically inspect their home or business for evidence of termites.

More information is available at the department's pesticide and environmental programs website, www.ldaf.state.la.us.