Larval surveying and monitoring for the 2011 Mosquito Control Program began in late April. The goal of the annual control program is to reduce adult mosquito annoyance for residents and visitors.

Mosquito development occurs with water accumulations from precipitation in rainfall collecting in depressions and established ponds. Permanent mosquito habitat can include stagnant ponds, fresh and salt water marshes, non-flowing ditches, depressions and any other natural or man-made container that can hold water.

Focus of the Control Program

Experience has proven that the best way to achieve relief from adult mosquito annoyance is through effective control of larval mosquito populations.

Control program efforts are focused on the identification and treatment of mosquito larvae using the biological larvicide VectoBac 200G which contains the bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis var. isrealensis (Bti). This bacterium is specific in its control of mosquitoes and does not affect other insects, fish, birds or mammals (including humans), livestock and pets.

All larvicide applications are directed to infested mosquito development habitat located within, and adjacent to inhabited areas using ground-based, hand-broadcast methods.

Residents can help

Residents can help reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites by eliminating mosquito development sources around their property and by using personal protection methods. Regular draining and refilling of wading pools, livestock watering troughs, bird baths and emptying of tarped boats, canoes or wheelbarrows reduces a source of mosquito development.

Personal Protection

While the larval mosquito control program will help reduce overall mosquito populations, residents and visitors should still be prepared to protect themselves from adult mosquitoes. Ensure window screens are in good condition; wear loose, light coloured clothing. Avoid perfumed skin care products, shampoos and consider using repellents.

The firm providing the program is D.G. Regan and Associates Ltd., an environmental services firm. All mosquito larvicide applications are completed under the approved conditions of Provincial authorization.

For more information on mosquitoes, the control program or VectoBac 200G please visit D.G. Regan and Associates  D.G. Regan and Associates website or Valent BioSciences.

Residents can leave a message for the mosquito control program biologist at 604-931-4565 or, if necessary, program biologists may also be contacted by e-mail and will follow up, where required.