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RDOS helps reduce the mosquito population

Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen will begin their nuisance mosquito control program soon
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Each week, the RDOS mosquito control crew tests standing water at identified sites for the presence of mosquito larvae. File photo

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen will begin their nuisance mosquito control program soon.

Since 1974, the RDOS mosquito control program typically runs between mid-May into late August. For the past several years, the program has been starting in April due to weather conditions and resident complaints.

Each week, the RDOS mosquito control crew tests standing water at identified sites for the presence of mosquito larvae. If the site requires treatment, a granular bacterial larvicide is broadcast into the water. The natural bacteria pellets kill the mosquito and biting black fly at their larval stage. The adult mosquitos are not affected by the larvicide and the product has shown not to harm any other insects, amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds or mammals.

This year, the RDOS mailed permission to treat letters to residents on the program in advance of the mosquito season. This is to maximize the crew’s efficiency once the season gets underway. If you reside in the RDOS electoral areas or municipalities (A,B, C, D, F, G, and ” as well as the City of Penticton, District of Summerland and Towns of Oliver and Osoyoos) and have areas of standing water bodies too large to drain on your own, or have areas previously treated and have not received a letter, please contact Zoe Kirk, public works project co-ordinator at the number or email zkirk@rdos.bc.ca.

Protect Yourself

The RDOS suggests to mend screens and reduce sources of standing water on your property. Clean and unclog eaves-troughs and gutters and remove water from any depressions on your roof or driveway. Refresh pet dishes and birdbaths daily. Remove any standing water from items such as tires, pails, tarps, boats, hot tub and pool covers.

Look around your property for anything that can hold water (for 72 hours or more) as it will provide an excellent habitat for mosquitoes. Yard items such as storm water catch basins, ephemeral ponds, standing water in tires, plant pots, small troughs, pool covers, rain barrels, tarps, rain barrels and wading pools are all places that can harbour breeding mosquitos.