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Press Release 4/10/97 Item: Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District Springs Into Action Text: The warm weather of Spring has triggered the mosquito breeding season, which means that Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District personnel have begun their annual battle to fight these biting pests throughout the 384 square mile district. The types of mosquitoes commonly found in the district are capable of transmitting malaria, Western Equine Encephalitis, Saint Louis Encephalitis, and canine heartworm according to district biologist, John Albright. Crews are out patrolling all areas of the looking for the standing water sources where mosquitoes breed, and treating or draining areas where mosquito larvae are found. This early-season preventive work is vital to ensure that the numbers of biting adult mosquitoes will remain low after the weather has warmed up according to operations supervisor, Audie Butcher. The district has already responded to complaints caused by the western treehole mosquito. This aggressive biter transmits the nematode that causes canine heartworm. It's larvae grow up in tree-holes and other temporary sources of stagnant water. Homeowners can help reduce mosquito problems on their property by filling treeholes, and eliminating other sources such as accumulated junk, and runoff from lawn sprinklers that provide a habitat for breeding many types of mosquitoes. Mosquito fish are also available from the district for planting in permanent water sources to feed on mosquito larvae. More information on the control of mosquitoes and other pests is available from the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District Office at 365-3876. Contact Agency: Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District Phone: 365-3768 Email: |