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INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)

Mosquito and vector control is based on scientifically planned management tactics and control strategies that reduce the abundance of target pests in a timely manner. This method is commonly referred to as “integrated pest management”. This comprehensive program incorporates five basic methods: public relations and education, mosquito and vector surveillance, biological control, physical control and chemical control (larvicides and adulticides).

Public Relations and Education

The District’s outreach program educates and informs the public about mosquito control and prevention methods. Residents are encouraged to practice the District’s 7Ds of mosquito prevention. DRAIN any standing water that may produce mosquitoes. DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outside. These are the times when mosquitoes are most active. DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors. DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using an effective insect repellent, such as DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Make sure you follow label directions! DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition. This will prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. DISTRICT personnel are available to address any mosquito problem you may be experiencing by calling 1-800-429-1022 or visiting us online at FIGHTtheBITE.net.

Mosquito and Vector Surveillance

The District closely monitors mosquito activity, climate change and arbovirus activity by constantly testing mosquitoes, sentinel chickens and wild birds for the presence of a pathogen, parasite or arbovirus. This research and surveillance information helps guide efficient control of vectors and vector-borne diseases in Sacramento and Yolo counties.

Biological Control

Biological control is the use of specially chosen living organisms to control a particular pest. This chosen organism might be a predator, parasite, or pathogen which will attack the harmful insect resulting in a desired reduction of pest population levels. The most successful biological tool against immature mosquitoes in California is the mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis. When introduced to a mosquito breeding source, the mosquitofish quickly adapts, multiplies and becomes numerically capable of sustaining an effective control level.

Physical Control

Physical control (environmental manipulation) is achieved by altering the major ecological components of the pest’s environment such as: promoting effective drainage, controlling emergent vegetation, promoting appropriate timing of irrigation, and encouraging mosquito reduction best management practices in urban, agricultural, and conservation areas. By manipulating breeding sources, we eliminate the opportunity for pests to reproduce.

Chemical Control

Chemical control is the prudent use of specific chemical compounds (insecticides) that reduce mosquito populations. Insecticides are applied when other methods are unable to maintain mosquito numbers below a level that is considered tolerable or when emergency control measures are needed to rapidly disrupt or terminate the transmission of disease to humans and animals. The chemicals and application methods used are approved for public health use and are designed to minimize non-target effects. Larvicides target mosquito larvae and pupae; adulticides are chemicals that reduce adult mosquitoes.

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