Early start to South Okanagan and Similkameen mosquito control program

PENTICTON – Early spring conditions in the South Okanagan and Similkameen this year have resulted in an early onslaught of mosquitoes.

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen’s Nuisance Mosquito Control Program traditionally begins in mid-May, since the inception of the program in 1974.

However, the regional district says in a media release it is launching the program almost a month earlier due to the warm spring weather, early spring melt and increased number of mosquito complaints.

The regional district says mosquito control crew tests standing water for the presence of mosquito larvae on a weekly basis. If required, the site is treated with a granular bacterial larvicide applied to the water. The product kills mosquito and black fly larvae but does not harm other insects, fish, reptiles or birds.

Residents who have bodies of standing water too large to drain on their own are asked to contact the mosquito control program at 1-877-610-3737 or 250-490-4142.

The program is active throughout the South Okanagan including Penticton, Summerland, Oliver and Osoyoos.

Residents are also being advised to remove standing water from tires, pails, tarps, boats, hot tubs and pool covers. Anything in the yard that can hold water for more than 72 hours can provide a breeding ground for mosquitos.

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