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What Can You Do?
Eliminating places for mosquitoes to
breed is an important part of pest management and, whenever possible, is
the preferred method of mosquito control.
Several habitats found on farms can support the production of
mosquitoes. Larvae can develop in watering troughs, small ponds,
irrigation ditches, rain barrels, manure lagoons, ruts where farm
equipment frequently travels and other areas where water is allowed to
accumulate. Even hoof prints can accumulate water and provide a breeding
habitat. The close proximity of livestock, nuisance animals (such as
birds) and other animals to mosquito breeding habitats increases the
risk for the transmission of animal and human disease.
Improve drainage in irrigated fields,
and fill in ruts made by tractors and other farming equipment.
Thoroughly clean watering troughs
regularly. Remove containers that accumulate water, including old tires.
Aerate small ponds and stock them with native fish that eat mosquito
larvae such as fathead minnows and killifish minnows.
In situations where eliminating
mosquito breeding areas is not a practical alternative, larvicide is the
most effective control technique. Larvicides can only be applied by
certified pesticide applicators. An applicator can help you to determine
which product would best suit your situation, and what type of control
activities should be conducted.
Call the CCHD 812-282-7521 for more information on controlling mosquito populations
on your Clark County Farm.
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