5.3. SR 07-14-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Spraying for adults This strategy is less effective and staff has more concerns regarding its effects on the environment and human health. The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District uses pyrethrin when spraying for adult mosquitoes, which is a botanical derivative of chrysanthemums. It is a nonspecific insecticide, meaning it can harm beneficial insects and other wildlife. There is a required setback from water bodies containing fish and the use of this product. This spray can also cause a reaction in people with allergies. Staff received one phone call this spring from a lady claiming that her and her husband got very ill from the effects of spraying and were moving to Elk River to get out of the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District. Staff did get quotes from private firms for spraying the approximately 125 miles of roads in Elk River eight times during the summer. The lowest quote was approximately $33,000. The problem with the strategy of spraying for adults is that the effects are very temporary. Although the mosquitoes that come into contact with the spray are killed, its real benefit is that it acts as a barrier or mosquito repellant. A medium strength wind can nullify this benefit. Individual Mosquito Control With the above normal amount of rainfall this year, my family and I have also struggled with the issue of mosquitoes. Private citizens can use loggers, which will act as a temporary barrier for special events. These are an insecticide and staff cautions that the directions for application should be followed very closely. Private individuals may also purchase BTI and treat their own ponds. The cost of applying BTI is excessive, but the product itself is not overly high priced. A new product is showing promise. It is a machine that uses propane to emit carbon dioxide, which is what attracts the mosquitoes to humans. The mosquitoes are then trapped in the device. Apparendy this machine has an impressive range. However, the down side is that it is somewhat expensive. The last line of defense is using bug spray containing DEET and wearing light colored loose fitting clothing. Even if some form of mosquito control is implemented in Elk River, these remedies will still be necessary to tolerate being outside during the peak of the mosquito season. Staff awaits clirecdon from the Council on this issue.