The City of Pierre takes its second punch at the local mosquito population this week.
“About two weeks ago, we started treating grass in public areas,” said Jay Jensen, City Park Superintendent. “Now we’re adding fogging to the operation.”
The evening of Wednesday, June 12, City Parks Department staff will fog for mosquitos in residential areas. Fogging is used to abate adult mosquitos. Though, Jensen says prevention is the most effective way to control the mosquito population.
“If we can eliminate breeding grounds, we can eliminate much of the pest population,” said Jensen.
The city does this by clearing stagnant water from public property, and the city encourages the public to do the same.
“Empty out bird baths, tire swings, or any sort of container that holds water,” Jensen advised. “Even a small puddle can produce thousands of mosquitoes.”
The city sets and monitors mosquito traps each year to help identify the best times for mosquito control operations.
“Mosquitoes breed as long as the weather allows. We start monitoring traps early and continue monitoring and treating for mosquitoes until cooler weather kicks in,” Jensen added.