The RDEK currently has a Mosquito Control Service in the Skookumchuck, Ta Ta Creek, Wasa area. The Program is overseen by Morrow Bioscience on behalf of the RDEK. 

There are four life stages for floodwater mosquitoes: egg, larvae, pupae, adult. Floodwater mosquito eggs in the area hatch in the water when local Kootenay River levels increase and peak in the spring/early summer. Mosquito larvae live approximately 7-10 days in the water column before becoming pupae. Mosquito larvae feed on debris in the water column, but pupae are the non-feeding stage. The time from egg hatching to adult dispersal generally ranges from 2-3 weeks depending on weather (warmer weather reduces this timeline).

Floodwater mosquito habitat is on most natural areas that flood annually. Within the Mosquito Control Service Area, mosquito development habitat exists along the Kootenay River and any other low-lying fields that flood with high water levels.  

Control methods

Morrow BioScience Ltd. (MBL) uses a biological larvicide with the active ingredient bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) which is a natural soil-borne bacterium. Bti targets larvae before they can grow into adults. Bti is not harmful to people, honeybees, animals, fish or other aquatic life. It can be applied safely to standing water without causing harm or impacts to food crops or water supply. It is consumed by the larvae, and leads quickly to larval mosquito death.

Habitat Reduction & Personal Protective Tips

Landowners play a key role in any effective mosquito control efforts and eliminating mosquitoes before they emerge as adults. The best way to stop mosquitoes
before they start is to remove all sources of standing water from around your home.   Remove or refresh daily any standing water around your home including in gutters, kiddie pools, old tires, bird baths, outdoor pet water, etc.

Wear light coloured clothing and cover up. Avoid the use of cologne or perfume, as those scents tend to attract mosquitoes. Use a registered insect repellent, if necessary.

Make sure window screens are properly maintained.

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