Recent rains coupled with an unseasonably warm spring have combined to kick off an early start to mosquito season within the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMVCD). Since March, District personnel have been monitoring mosquito populations, disease occurrence and treating areas of standing water to prevent mosquito breeding. One of the effective tools that the District uses to help reduce mosquito populations is the use of the small mosquito larva-eating fish Gambusia affinis, which are planted into appropriate water sources.
The District delivers these fish to residents with ponds, water features, animal troughs and other persistent water sources. “The District has a new state-of-the-art indoor fish-rearing facility that has allowed us to keep a good supply of fish through the winter for distribution in the spring. We have plenty of mosquito fish on-hand right now for District residents who need them,” explained District Manager Peter Bonkrude.
In addition to using mosquito fish, residents are urged to take precautions to eliminate areas of standing water around their yards; any container that holds water can breed mosquitoes. The District will also begin their annual neglected swimming pool program, so it is encouraged that residents begin prepping their pools for summer. “Residents are at the greatest risk of disease and discomfort from mosquitoes that they allow to breed close to their homes,” Vector Ecologist John Albright.
SMVCD staff urges residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites; reducing activity during the peak mosquito feeding times at dawn and dusk, wearing effective insect repellent, and staying behind screened windows and doors whenever possible.
Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control advise the public to implement the 3 Ds of protection:
- Drain any standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
- Defend yourself and your home by using an effective insect repellent and dressing protectively when outside and making sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition.
- Contact the District for any additional help controlling mosquito around your home
For more information, contact the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District at (530) 365-3768 or
-from press release