August 30, 2010

New exterminator business in southern Colorado

New Exterminator Business based in Manassa Serves Entire San Luis Valley


Spiders, ants and mites…oh my! Who ya’ gonna’ call? Specializing in residential maintenance, Kristi Jarvies, owner of 5K Pest Management, is the newest exterminator in town and can also mitigate crickets, silverfish, stinkbugs, cockroaches, centipedes and more. Kristi has already treated over 40 homes and cabins since starting her business in June of 2010. Based in Manassa and totally locally owned and operated, Jarvies can service the entire San Luis Valley.

Over 20 years ago Kristi’s dad started a similar business in Albuquerque and called it 5K because he had 5 kids. Kristi and her husband Mitchell also have 5 kids, so they registered the business in Colorado with the same name. Kristi learned the business working alongside her father as well as attending several intense certifying classes. It has taken more than two years to learn everything she needs to know such as chemical use safety and identifying different pests and their habitats and characteristics. She has passed all her tests and each year has to keep up with continuing education to stay licensed. All of the certifications come from the Department of Agriculture. “Chemicals are always improving and becoming safer and more effective. Everything we use is biodegradable and wont’ hurt humans or pets. My dad says that some household products under your kitchen sink are more harmful than what we use,” Jarvies commented. She feels her business has a niche over other exterminators because she doesn’t require a yearly contract.

“I had my house serviced from another company and they didn't get rid of my bugs. Kristi came in and serviced my home and now my bugs are gone. Her pricing is more reasonable and she is more dependable than the other company,” remarked Sandy Smalley from Mosca, a satisfied customer. Kristi contacted the San Luis Valley Small Business Development Center for some assistance with marketing and business planning. She also attended a workshop held in conjunction with Ann Marie Velasquez and the Conejos County Chamber. Kristi may be contacted by calling (719) 843-5028 or (719) 580-9411.