|
Dear Residents,
Since mid September the Rio Grande
Valley has experienced unusual amounts of rainfall. As
you probably are aware flooding has occurred throughout
the Valley. Here on the Island most standing water
receded within hours of the heaviest rains. However, many
areas retain surface water which could result in increased
mosquito populations. The Town of South Padre is
proactive in reducing the risk of increased mosquito
populations on the Island.
Generally and specifically in this
case, once rains have ended the first response is to treat
all stagnant pond water in lots and right of ways with
proper larvicides and an oil insecticide to prevent
mosquito larvae from hatching. The delivery system is
known as 'tossit' pellets. These pellets have a residual
effect and reactivate when a low area fills up again by
concurrent rains. These areas are treated and documented
and records are kept in the Public Works Department.
Adulticiding of mosquito populations is accomplished by
ULV (Ultra Low Volume) spraying. Normally the Public
Works Department utilizes this method two or three days
after the rain stops and involves several chemicals as
recommended by the State Health Department. Chemicals are
alternated due to the mosquito’s ability to develop
immunity to a chemical if it is used repeatedly. Spraying
is done in the early morning and in the evening. It takes
approximately six (6) hours to spray the entire Town
corporate limits.
Spraying can only be done when
the winds are less than ten (10) miles per hour. We have
the ability to double the normal production in order to
get the mosquito population under control. Chemical
amounts and spraying logs are kept in a Vector Control
form as required by the State Health Department. These
Vector Control forms are filed with the Town Public Works
and Health Departments. At this time we are continuing
the ULV spraying on a regular basis.
Residents can be helpful as well.
Emptying containers which are holding water in and around
your yard and keeping lawns cut will reduce mosquito
populations. Low laying property, which chronically
ponds, may be filled if properly permitted.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey A. Gilbert, P.E.
Director of Public Works
|
