Want to help reduce rodent activity near your home?
The City actively works to reduce rodent activity in our community. When residents help near their homes, together we can make an even bigger difference.
Here’s what you can do!
Remove Food Sources
- Keep trash and recycling carts closed and tightly sealed.
- Patch any holes in carts, and call 311 to replace when damaged.
- Compost properly: No meat, dairy, grease, or strong-smelling items.
- Report ANY trash overflows to 311.
- Do not feed wildlife. Pick up vegetable garden waste.
Prevent Water Supply
- Remove sources of standing water: dog bowls, birdbaths, or plant saucers.
- Inspect and repair any leaks from faucets, hoses, rain catchers, or AC units.
- Remove standing water like puddles by draining or sweeping away.
- Clear away or empty containers that gather rainwater: buckets, toys, or other items.
- Empty watering cans when not using.
Reduce Shelter Access
- Landscape and declutter regularly.
- Remove low-lying vegetation, and trim all plants away from structures.
- Inspect the outside of your home for potential rodent entry points. Rats can fit through holes as small as ½ inch wide.
- Check around pipes, vents, door sweeps, windows, or cable entry points.
- Fill entry points with steel wool, rodent-proof spray foam, steel mesh, or hardware cloth.
Programs & Initiatives
If you are a business, consultant, or non-profit that may be able to support Somerville’s business community, we encourage you to respond to our Request for Information (RFI).
Members will develop a recommendation to the Mayor on both the location and scope of a renovated or new school to meet the needs of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and potentially the Benjamin G. Brown School.
Feedback
Please submit website feedback using this form. Be sure to include:
A description of the issue (if any)
A link to the affected pages
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