Warmer weather brings all sorts of great things... new leaves on the trees, spring flowers, active bird populations, and mosquitoes!!! Yes, I said it, mosquitoes! Many times homeowners are not overly concerned with mosquitoes until they become a pest, literally. But what can you do now?
According to Dr. Michael Waldvogel, Extension Associate Professor & Specialist, Structural & Industrial Pests, now is the time to start prevention methods for mosquito control. Eliminate standing water around your home. Even small areas that collect water such as a sagging tarp on a boat, or an old tire, can be a haven for mosquito larvae. Clean out your gutters to ensure that water flows freely and does not get stopped up to create a pool. Also, make sure to clear any drainage ditches around your home. A drainage ditch is meant to collect and redistribute runoff in a timely manner. It should not have standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
Last but not least, Dr. Waldvogel says, "Convince your neighbors to do the same because mosquito control takes a community effort."
Image Courtesy of www.cals.ncsu.edu
