Wet spring, standing water and warm weather add up to mosquito storm

Since early April, crews have been out monitoring and treating mosquito larvae in about 200 known breeding locations across the Central Okanagan as part of the Regional District’s Mosquito Control Program.

With the cooler temperatures during April, mosquito larva generation is a little behind. But with more recent seasonal temperatures, they’re expecting to see more mosquito larva and potentially more mosquitoes hatching.

“Residents can help join the ght against the bite by removing potential places for mosquitoes to hang out around their properties,” RDCO communications Of cer Bruce Smith said in a press release. “Remove any standing water sources and unused items that collect water such as old tires. Just a few millimetres of water is all that’s needed for mosquito larva to survive and hatch into biting mosquitoes.”

As well he says, “Rain barrels should be covered with a screen to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs in the water.

“At least twice a week, drain standing water from containers under plant pots or in garbage cans and change the water in birdbaths, wading pools and pet bowls. And remove any water that sits in unused swimming pools and on swimming pool covers and aerate water in ponds or add sh that will feed on mosquito larvae.”

In addition to the monitoring and treatment in almost 200 known surface water habitats, in the coming weeks this spring and summer, more than 10,000 roadside catch basins will be checked and treated if necessary.

Duka Environmental Ltd. provides all larval mosquito control within the participating funding areas under contract with the Regional District.

Residents in the participating areas of the program (Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland, Central Okanagan East and a small section of West Kelowna Estates in West Kelowna) can report mosquito concerns by calling Duka Environmental Ltd. at 1-800-681-3472 or go online to regionaldistrict.com/mosquitoes and ll out an online form.