Critter Control of Central Mo has been in business since 2005 and has been locally owned and operated by Peter Riney and his family since 2009. Bringing over 17 years of wildlife management experience in this industry and the support and knowledge of a national company that has over 40 years of experience and hundreds of certified pest, bird, and wildlife management specialists on staff, Critter Control has the personnel, experience, and knowledge to resolve your wildlife issue no matter how large or small.
Peter Riney earned a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife from the University of Missouri–Columbia in 2004 and started with Critter Control of St. Louis in January 2005. Six months later, he was tasked with moving back to Columbia, MO, to become the franchise manager of the Central Missouri branch. In September 2009, Peter and his wife, Kristin, purchased the franchise from Gene and Beth Jezek of Critter Control St. Louis.
Meet the Critter Control of Central Missouri Team
- Employment start date: January 2005
- Education: B.S. in Fisheries & Wildlife from the University of Missouri-Columbia
- The family includes wife Kristin and three children, Emmalee, Cole, and Lilli.
- Hobbies include nature/wildlife photography, hiking, and gardening
From an early age, Peter knew he wanted to work with animals. Having an affinity for reptiles since he can remember made his choice of critter particularly unusual to some. Whether it’s snakes, bats, or skunks, a career working closely with animals and the public keeps Peter excited and engaged in his work every day.
“I didn’t know there was anything like this (Critter Control) out there when I was going to school. I just knew I wanted to work with animals in some capacity and assumed I would get a job with the Conservation Department or US Fish and Wildlife. After I graduated from college in December of 2004, my wife and I got married and moved to the St. Louis area (for her job), where I answered a newspaper ad for a ‘wildlife biologist needed’. I started with the St. Louis CC franchise in January of 2005, and in July of that same year was tasked with being the franchise manager of the Central Missouri branch. With much apprehension, but more intrigue and excitement, my wife left her job and she and I left the St. Louis area to move back to Columbia to start this journey and haven’t looked back since! I really can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Featured In
Katelyn McWethy, Wildlife Technician
Employment Start Date: March, 2022
- Education:
- B.S in Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana
- Hobbies include Hiking with her dogs and spending time with her animals
Katelyn is from northern Illinois and holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana. In her free time, she enjoys hiking with her dogs and discovering her new state of Missouri.
Brandon Reine, Wildlife Technician
Employment Start Date: April, 2022
- Education:
- Engineering studies at the Missouri University of Science and Technology
- Hobbies include: Camping, hiking, hunting, and especially fishing
Brandon’s mechanical aptitude and problem-solving abilities, coupled with his engineering experience, bring a skill set that is highly sought-after in the wildlife management industry. Originally from Sedalia, he enjoys hunting and fishing in his free time.
Jacob Fritz, Wildlife Technician
Employment Start Date: May, 2022
- Education:
- B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Environmental Science, Biology, and Criminal Justice) from Central Methodist University
- Hobbies include: Hunting, fishing, woodworking, and basketball
Jacob is also from Missouri and holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Central Methodist University. He has previously worked for seven seasons for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and another season with the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Sam Conley, Pest and Wildlife Technician
Sam is originally from Goffstown, New Hampshire, and recently graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Music. While pursuing his studies, Sam developed a strong appreciation for both the arts and the natural world, and he has long had a passion for wildlife and the outdoors. His curiosity about nature and interest in working outside led him to pursue a career where he can be actively engaged in the environment every day.
Outside of work, Sam enjoys staying active by playing basketball, spending time outdoors, playing video games, and creating music. His creative background and enthusiasm for the outdoors bring a unique perspective to his work and reflect his well-rounded interests.
Ben Oesch, Pest and Wildlife Technician
Ben is originally from Alton, Missouri and recently graduated from the University of Missouri (Mizzou) with a degree in Natural Resource Conservation and Management. With a strong interest in wildlife, land stewardship, and the outdoors, Ben is passionate about protecting natural resources and helping people responsibly coexist with wildlife.
Outside of work, Ben enjoys spending time outdoors and pursuing his interest in music. His appreciation for both nature and creativity reflects his well-rounded approach to life and his dedication to the field of wildlife management.
Harley Whitaker Pest and Wildlife Technician
Harley Whitaker has been an intern with Critter Control since 2025. He is studying at the University of Missouri where he is working toward a degree in Natural Resource Management and is expected to graduate in December 2026. Through his coursework and field experiences, Harley has developed a strong interest in wildlife, conservation, and working outdoors.
Growing up with a love for the outdoors, Harley enjoys hunting and fishing whenever he can. In his free time, he also enjoys playing sports and spending time with friends. His enthusiasm for outdoor recreation and natural resources continues to shape his goals as he prepares for a career in the wildlife management.
Heidi Liedtke, Director of Operations
- Employment State Date August 16, 2018
- Education: B.A. in International Business Administration and French Language from William Jewell College
- Hobbies include working on her hobby farm, spending time in nature, and cooking.
When she is not working, you may find her at the baseball field watching her kiddos practice or working on her hobby farm. After homeschooling her children for seven years, Heidi brings tremendous multitasking, organizational, and problem-solving skills. The experience she has garnered over those years, and the challenges of educating three separate grade levels with vastly different curricula, have given her an appreciation for the difficulties, and she is eager to help you solve your wildlife issues!
Career Day at Alpha Hart Elementary School
Peter participated in Alpha Hart Elementary School’s Avid Academy Career Day on October 18, 2024. The students made presentations on their future careers. Later, local professionals presented on their careers. Peter explained what Critter Control does and how his franchise supports the community. He even brought in some critters to show the students!
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