Boston to host second annual rat summit in September

BOSTON — Some of the brightest minds in rat control are coming to Boston this fall.

The city is hosting the National Urban Rat Summit scheduled for September 23-25, which will bring together academics, researchers, public health professionals, municipal officials, and rodent mitigation experts from across the United States and around the world. The goal is to share research, innovative technologies, and best practices for tackling one of the biggest challenges facing cities—urban rat populations.

The event will also highlight Boston’s own efforts to reduce rodent activity through the Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP), launched by Mayor Michelle Wu in May 2024.

“Since we launched the Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) in 2024, our rodent control team has been deploying new technologies to target rodent activity, better coordination of City services based on data and analytics, and tailored strategies to eliminate rodent populations in different areas,” Wu said. “We look forward to bringing cities together to burrow under barriers, gnaw through nagging issues, and scurry toward solutions for the highest quality of life for our human residents.”

Since its launch, BRAP has changed the city’s approach to rodent mitigation by emphasizing prevention, technology, and data-driven decision-making instead of relying primarily on traditional rodenticides.

Among the city’s initiatives are the installation of sewer and surface rodent traps, the rollout of rodent-resistant trash receptacles, and expanded integrated pest management practices. Officials have also improved inspection and enforcement efforts while coordinating sanitation and construction projects to address the root causes of rodent activity.

The city says the program has also strengthened collaboration across departments through quarterly meetings with partner agencies to create a citywide integrated pest management system.

Boston has partnered with the Boston Water and Sewer Commission and the Boston Housing Authority to pilot innovative trapping technologies both underground and above ground. The city is also using mapping, analytics, and inspection data to identify rodent hotspots, prioritize interventions, and measure progress in neighborhoods.

In addition, BRAP has increased public education efforts on proper trash storage and disposal while working with residents, businesses, institutions, and community organizations to promote long-term rodent prevention.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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