The Village of Algonquin, IL
Welcome to the website for the Village of Algonquin!
Mosquito Control Program
The Village of Algonquin has partnered with Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, Inc. to implement the EarthRight Integrated Mosquito Control Program. This program follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and utilizes products registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This integrated program is designed to reduce mosquito populations and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile Virus.
Program Details
Surveillance and Testing
In this phase, Clarke Environmental maps out prominent mosquito breeding habitats in Algonquin. Several traps are placed around the village to monitor mosquito populations. This information provides insights into mosquito species, population density, and potential carriers of West Nile Virus.
Larval Control
To prevent mosquito larvae from becoming adults, bacterial agents are introduced into standing water sources such as retention ponds and storm drains. These biological agents specifically target mosquito larvae, disrupting their life cycle without harming other wildlife.
Adult Control
As needed, an Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) listed product is applied in a fine mist of droplets after sunset, when mosquitoes are most active. This product is disseminated using trucks equipped with electric sprayers. The goal is to control mosquitoes early in their lifecycle so that adult control remains minimal. However, when required, weather conditions and mosquito activity levels will determine the timing of this phase.
Community Education
A critical part of Algonquin’s mosquito control program is educating the community. Residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water every two to three days, clean gutters, and avoid outdoor activities at dusk. Wearing long sleeves, pants, and using mosquito repellents with DEET also help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How can I be notified when adult control spraying occurs?
Residents can join the Village’s spray notification list by contacting the Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, Inc. hotline at 800-942-2555.
2. Why doesn’t the Village spray for mosquitoes more often?
The goal of the EarthRight program is to control mosquito populations early in their life cycle to avoid the need for adult control spraying. Spraying for adult mosquitoes is only conducted when absolutely necessary, based on mosquito activity and population levels observed in traps.
3. What can I do to help reduce mosquitoes around my home?
Residents can help by eliminating breeding sites. Empty and clean bird baths, kiddie pools, and any containers holding water at least every two to three days. Ensure that gutters are draining properly and fix any leaky outdoor faucets.
4. Is the mosquito spray harmful to other insects like bees and butterflies?
The product used in the adult control phase is designed to impact mosquitoes and is applied in very small amounts. Spraying occurs after sunset, when bees and butterflies are less active, minimizing the impact on these insects.
5. What should I do to avoid mosquito bites?
Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dusk. Use insect repellents containing DEET and avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity.
6. What is the purpose of larval control?
Larval control targets mosquitoes before they become adults. By introducing biological agents into standing water, mosquito larvae are prevented from developing into adults, reducing the need for widespread spraying.
For more information about Algonquin’s mosquito management program or to be added to the adult control spray notification list, contact Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, Inc. at 800-942-2555.
Associated Documents
- New Illinois Pesticide Application Notification Requirements
