Mosquito program ramping up in South Okanagan

PENTICTON – Higher than normal amounts of standing water and flood conditions throughout the South Okanagan have resulted in a stepping up of the regional district’s mosquito control program.

More larvacide will be placed in water bodies by the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen. The larvacide is deadly to mosquitos and black flies in their larval stage, but will not harm other insects, birds, amphibians, fish or animals, according to a media release.

The Regional District says a helicopter will be used to access tough to reach bodies of water on Wednesday, June 14. The helicopter allows more treatment over the difficult terrain in less time.

As well, residents are asked to rid their properties of standing water wherever possible.

Predictions are for another bad season of mosquitoes next year, as mosquito eggs laid in wet ground this year will remain viable for a decade, the Regional District says.

Property owners wishing to register for the mosquito program are asked to call program lead Cindy Boehm at 250-490-4142.

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