Mosquito Control

Office of the Contract Monitor - Mosquito Control

If you have questions, problems or would like more information in regard to mosquito control in St. Charles Parish, please contact our vendor:



Attacking the Problem at the Source: Larviciding
Non-Chemical

• Once mosquito breeding sites are identified, mosquito control transports mosquito fish to these sites to let nature take over. The fish feed on mosquito larvae, providing a biological solution. These fish are also offered free to homeowners for use in private ponds.

Biochemical

• If a site is not suitable for fish, a biochemical spray containing bacteria - not insecticide - is used to control the larvae. The bacteria affect only the mosquito larvae and prevent them from leaving the water.

Attacking the Problem in Flight: Adulticiding
It's not possible to reach every  breeding ground before the mosquito takes flight. The non-chemical and biochemical approaches are usually supplemented by various spraying methods aimed at adult mosquitoes. Several times a week, sampling devices located throughout the area provide updated information on adult mosquito movement and numbers. This data helps direct the company's response from both truck mounted sprayers and aircraft.


Inspection and Identification
In the Field

• Inspection teams locate, map and categorize major mosquito breeding sites, as well as record the various species of mosquitoes present. The company gathers rainfall information and monitors adult mosquito activity.

Trapping

• The latest trapping devices are used to collect, catalog and monitor mosquitoes at various locations throughout an area. Whether it's a mosquito that has had a blood meal or one that's looking for a meal. Techniques can target these specific mosquitoes to aid in suppression.

Hi-Tech Tracking

• This year-round data collection is computer plotted and analyzed to direct equipment and personnel for site-specific control.
  

West Nile Encephalitis

• The company employs biologists whose sole responsibility is in the detection and monitoring of disease-carrying mosquitoes. They work closely with state health officials and the centers for disease control. They provide valuable research data in the study of the growing encephalitis threat nationwide.
• Since migrating birds provide a reservoir host for an encephalitis virus, nothing can prevent movement into your area. But surveillance can lead to the breaking of the transmission cycle. Biologist teams use flocks of chickens as sentinels to monitor the presence of encephalitis. The caged flocks are placed at strategic locations throughout the area. Blood samples collected from these birds are then tested for evidence of virus activity.
  
• Early detection is key. If an outbreak is detected, mosquito control can successfully stem the spread with proven control methods and coordinated efforts with government, news media and the education of residents.