MOSQUITO CONTROL

As warmer days approach, so does mosquito season. Don't let these pesky insects zap the fun out of your outdoor activities. 

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance for any outdoor gathering and can be carriers of deadly diseases. However, not all mosquitoes fly in for a tasty bite. It is only the female mosquitoes that bite because they need protein from blood to produce eggs. To help keep families safe against these diseases and itchy bites, the city eliminates as many mosquitoes as possible through the mosquito control program.  

The Urban Management team strives to control the mosquito populations and breeding areas throughout the city by fogging city streets, neighborhoods, and public parks with a mosquito adulticide during the warmer months. As a community, we can all do our part to help reduce mosquitoes in and around our homes and neighborhoods. Follow the tips below to ensure a healthier lifestyle for your family and friends to enjoy, mosquito-free!

HELPFUL WAYS TO ELIMINATE MOSQUITOES:

• Remove Standing Water - Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water like tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers. These are perfect breeding areas for mosquitoes to lay eggs. If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.
• Hire a Pest Control Professional - Many local pest control companies now offer mosquito treatment services.
• Plant Lemongrass - Thai lemongrass contains citronella oil, the strong scent of which makes it hard for mosquitoes to find you. This will be a great perennial to plant by outdoor gathering spaces.
• Change your light bulbs - Replace lights with LED lights, yellow bug lights, or sodium lamps. These lights will reduce the number of mosquitoes swarming around the entrances to your house during the evening house.
• Dress Appropriately - Certain mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors like black, blue, and red. Wear lighter colors and try to avoid wearing scented perfumes or lotions. 
• Turn on a Fan - A fan blowing at a speed of two miles per hour is simply overpowering to a mosquito. So try strategically placing fans around your deck or patio to get a good bug-free breeze going.
• Use Natural Insect Spray - Before heading outside, grab a bottle of DEET-free insect repellant spray; reapply every two hours.
• Visit one of many local businesses that specialize in outdoor and garden supplies for a DIY mosquito solution.