As everyone is well aware this has been a challenging mosquito season. We have a larger than usual mosquito population which is a result of a few factors. First, we have had record rain fall for several months of the year, which resulted in higher river levels and flooding. The higher than normal river levels affected multiple sources, higher creeks and flooded areas throughout our entire district. This created the perfect environment for previously laid mosquito eggs from years passed that laid dormant on soil where they waited, like seeds, until spring rain washes them into shallow puddles or pools, or wet weather causes ponds to flood and rise to reach them. When conditions are too dry and cold, the eggs can lie dormant for months, hatching within hours or days when warm wet weather returns. Also, wintering adult mosquitoes that lay eggs in available water sources.
The Columbia River was in flood stage in June and many acres around the river flooded and mosquito eggs started hatching. Many of the areas we monitor and treat every seven to ten days were and are flooded and access was either difficult or impossible. It is more effective to treat mosquitoes in the larvae stage. As July comes to a close, there are still many areas with above average water levels than we have seen in the past; however, accessing these areas is easier than a month ago and larviciding is favorable.
We will continue to respond to mosquito requests within our district boundary. If you have questions, concerns or an area you want us to access, please let us know, contact information is under the “Contact Us” tab. Adulticiding or fogging will continue as listed under the “Adulticiding Schedule” tab. We update this tab weekly during peak season.
Additionally, we encourage you to do your part to help prevent mosquitoes from breeding around your yard and or property by doing the following regularly.
Eliminate all standing water where mosquitoes lay their eggs and larva develop.
- Destroy or dispose of cans, buckets, plastic sheeting, old tires, and other containers that collect water. Do not allow water to accumulate at the base of flower post or pet dishes for more then 2 days.
- Cesspools and septic tanks: seal and cover openings so no adult mosquitoes can get in.
- Ponds: Remove excess vegetation.
- Irrigated lawns and fields: avoid over watering and eliminate standing water.
- Bird baths: change water frequently.
- Watering troughs: Dump and change water weekly. Eliminate standing water around the trough.
- Open ditches: Drain to stream channels, underground systems, or other outlets. Remove obstructions and vegetation
- Used tires: store indoors or dispose of at an approved location.
- Swimming or wading pools: empty or cover tightly when not in use.
- Water under house or in basement: drain or pump out if possible. Treat as required.
- Roof gutters: clean frequently to remove blockage.