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Physical Control
The Ecological Management Department manages the physical control aspect of our Integrated Pest Management program by actively eliminating mosquito development sites. To accomplish this, they use ecologically-based Mosquito Reduction Best Management Practices (BMP) which reduce or eliminate the need for chemical control measures. Physical or environmental manipulation is an important control tactic on its own, but can also enhance biological and chemical control measures.
Mosquito Reduction Best Management Practices
In 2008, we released the first Mosquito Reduction BMP Manual. This document provides specific information regarding our District policy, mosquito biology, and various practices that can be useful in reducing mosquito populations. Land-use specific sections provide guidance for landowners and land-managers who deal with: managed wetlands, stormwater and wastewater systems, irrigated agriculture, rice production, dairies, swimming pools, cemeteries, and tire storage facilities.
Cemetery Program
Mosquitoes can breed in cemetery vases. In an effort to control mosquitoes, we developed a two-county cemetery vase program. The Cemetery Program asked participating cemeteries to treat cemetery flower vases with a special material that turns water into a gel that prevents mosquito development and keeps flowers fresh longer than water alone. Cemeteries in the program were responsible for maintaining the vases and for providing education to the visitors and family members.
To see a sample copy of the educational cemetery flyer used as part of this program please click here.
Fall Flooding Program
The practice of flooding previously dry land, such as seasonal wetlands, during the early fall for attracting waterfowl for conservation and recreational purposes creates favorable mosquito breeding habitats. Dense vegetation and slow speed of flooding can also increase the numbers of mosquitoes produced and delay the success of other mosquito control practices such as the use of larvicides and mosquitofish. We work with private and public landowners to determine when land will be flooded and take the appropriate measures for reducing mosquito development.
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Cemetery Vase (Before)
Flooded Field
Did you know?
'Mosquito Hawks', as they are often called, are actually Crane Flies and they do not eat mosquitoes. Crane flies are harmless and are beneficial insects.
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