Integrated Mosquito Management - Background
Invasive mosquitoes, especially the Yellow Fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti and the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus, are spreading rapidly in the United States and California is no exception. These species prefer to breed in artificial containers such as tires, cans and bottles, children’s toys, plant drainage saucers, clogged gutters – basically, anything that will hold water. Also, they bite primarily during the daytime so school children are at increased risk. Not only are they a biting nuisance, but they can also spread serious diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika virus and yellow fever.
Successful Control in Schools Using Integrated Pest Management
In Southern California, school districts deal with large numbers of complaints about mosquitoes. These complaints come from students, teachers, staff and parents. With current restrictions on treatments in sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, child-care, etc. the integrated pest management teams were frustrated because they had almost no tools to address these mosquito issues. The IPM staff were limited to inspecting to remove breeding sites and treating with contact insecticides made from essential oils. Our installation of Ovi-Catch at the Anaheim Union School District and the Los Angeles Unified School District provided excellent results. The IPM Technicians were delighted to have “some options” to actually impact the mosquito population and satisfy the concerns of staff, students and parents. The Ovi-Catch traps were installed in discreet and/or locked areas and had no issues with tampering. The staff noted less mosquito activity and were very happy with the reduction of mosquito issues.
This success was enhanced with the introduction of Final Feed mosquito spray. Final Feed improved results and offered a treatment method that lasted for 30 days or more. One of the major issues in schools is the surrounding properties. IPM Technicians frequently expressed that they had thoroughly inspected the school properties and removed breeding sources. However, they have no control over the surrounding properties and standing water located there. Final Feed provides a method of mitigating mosquitoes moving onto school property from adjacent areas.
The Final Feed applications and Ovi-Catch installations provided vital “leave behind” products that help to mitigate mosquitos that are originating off the property and are making their way onto the campus. “Ovi-Catch and Final Feed are an important part of our mosquito management program. If you can use these valuable tools, you should” said Rich Kravetz, IPM Technician, Anaheim Union School District. In general, we are having excellent results. However, as is the case with most devices and materials, training is key. Results have been strongly supported by the management and staff in the IPM programs who are motivated and very willing to accept training on the proper application of Final Feed and placement of Ovi-Catch.
Information compiled by: Stanton E. Cope, PhD, VP, Technical Products and Services, AP&G Past President, American Mosquito Control Association scope@catchmaster.com Tel: (551) 689-8073 Jim Shaver, Western Regional Manager, AP&G jshaver@catchmasterpro.com Tel: (480) 760-5874