Vermont is facing a notable surge in bed bug infestations, affecting both urban centers and smaller communities. Bed bugs, once nearly eradicated, have resurged due to increased travel, secondhand furniture, and growing pesticide resistance. Here’s how five Vermont cities are tackling this persistent pest problem:
1. Burlington
As Vermont’s largest city and a hub for college students, tourism, and apartment living, Burlington has seen a significant uptick in bed bug cases. Local pest control companies, such as Ehrlich Pest Control, offer integrated pest management plans, including regular inspections, heat treatments, and eco-friendly solutions. Hotels and landlords are encouraged to train staff for early detection and to use preventative treatments like Aprehend® biopesticide, which employs a natural fungus to kill bed bugs and prevent spread.
2. Rutland
Rutland’s mix of multi-unit housing and transient populations has made it a hotspot for infestations. Local authorities and pest management professionals emphasize routine inspections, tenant education, and rapid response protocols. Landlords are required to address infestations in multiple units, and the city promotes the use of heat remediation-a chemical-free method proven to kill all life stages of bed bugs in a single treatment.
3. Montpelier
As the state capital, Montpelier has seen bed bug issues in government buildings, hotels, and rental properties. The city partners with pest control experts to implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM), combining thorough inspections, targeted treatments, and public awareness campaigns. The Vermont Department of Health provides guidelines for both prevention and control, including encasing mattresses, sealing cracks, and minimizing clutter to reduce hiding spots.
4. Brattleboro
Brattleboro’s active secondhand market and older housing stock have contributed to recurring bed bug problems. Local pest control firms and community organizations work together to educate residents on the risks of bringing in used furniture and the importance of early detection. The city encourages reporting and immediate action, offering support for vulnerable populations such as those in shelters and supportive housing.
5. St. Albans
St. Albans has responded to bed bug outbreaks in apartment complexes and hotels by increasing inspections and collaborating with pest management companies. The focus is on rapid containment, professional extermination, and tenant cooperation. The city also supports the use of biological controls and heat treatments, which have proven effective against even pesticide-resistant bed bug populations.
Statewide Strategies and Innovations
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Vermont cities are adopting IPM protocols, combining regular inspections, public education, and a mix of treatment methods-chemical, heat, and biological-to address infestations.
- New Technologies: The use of Aprehend® biopesticide, which leverages a natural fungus to infect and kill bed bugs, is gaining popularity as a safe and effective alternative to traditional pesticides.
- Legal and Regulatory Support: Vermont law requires landlords to address infestations in multi-unit buildings and supports tenant rights to pest-free living conditions.
- Community Outreach: Cities are increasing public awareness through workshops, informational campaigns, and partnerships with local health departments and pest control professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Bed bug infestations are rising across Vermont, affecting cities large and small.
- Burlington, Rutland, Montpelier, Brattleboro, and St. Albans are leading the fight with proactive inspections, advanced treatments, and community education.
- Integrated Pest Management and innovative solutions like Aprehend® biopesticide and heat remediation are central to Vermont’s response.
- Collaboration between residents, landlords, pest control professionals, and public health officials is critical for effective control and prevention.
If you suspect a bed bug problem, prompt action and professional assistance are essential to prevent widespread infestation and protect public health.
Sources
- https://www.healthvermont.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2016/11/ENV_FL_LodgingBedBugs2011.pdf
- https://vtlawhelp.org/bedbugs
- https://www.jcehrlich.com/local-branches/burlington-vt
- https://pulaskipestcontrol.com/2025/04/10/from-infestation-to-elimination-bed-bug-behavior-and-the-power-of-aprehend-biopesticide-in-vermont/
- https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/DCF/Shared%20Documents/OEO/Training/Bed-Bugs-101.pdf
