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Conditions are Ripe for Mosquitoes
06/19/2009 |
Thursday, June 18, 2009 Persistent rainstorms over much of the Eastern US in the past month and into this week have produced soggy surroundings that are combining with higher temperatures to create perfect conditions for mosquitoes, the state Agriculture Department said.
Residents in most of Midwest can anticipate the emergence of troublesome numbers of adult mosquitoes. Efforts to control the insects are underway statewide.
"As the weather begins to warm, homeowners are reminded that their regular spring cleaning activities can help reduce mosquito populations," Agriculture Secretary Earl F. "Buddy" Hance said in a statement. "Measures such as removing containers that accumulate water and cleaning roof gutters will help prevent mosquitoes from breeding and will make spring outdoor activities such as gardening, barbeques and outdoor sports more pleasant."
Maryland's Mosquito Control Program serves 2,000 communities in 22 Maryland counties and Baltimore. A 2007 survey of participants in the program showed that 97 percent of respondents said it was very important to control mosquitoes.
In addition to the state program, homeowners can take the following steps to help reduce mosquito populations:
-- Remove buckets, cups, bottles, plastic bags or other containers left outside.
-- Clean roof gutters, which might be clogged by debris that fell as trees flowered this spring.
-- Check rain barrels to make sure they are completely screened, including around the downspout.
-- Remove old tires or drill holes in those used for playground equipment. Store usable tires in a shed or garage so water will not accumulate in them.
-- Fix dripping outdoor faucets.
-- Introduce fish to ornamental ponds, even those with fountains. Most fish will eat mosquito larvae.
-- Make sure outdoor trash cans have tight-fitting lids. If lids are not available, drill holes in the bottom of the can.
For information about Maryland's Mosquito Control Program, call 410-841-5870 or go to the Maryland Department of Agriculture's Web site at http://www.mda.state.md.us. (Washington Post)
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