Edmonton's Mosquito Control Program & How You Can Protect Your Lawn from These Pests

Mosquitoes are a public health concern capable of transmitting diseases like the West Nile Virus and Zika. Not to mention, they’re quite the irritating pest.

In Edmonton, the battle against these pesky invaders requires your individual efforts combined with those of municipal programs. Both community-led and personal preventive measures are vital.

The Health Risks of Mosquito Infestations

Mosquitoes are often dismissed as buzzing pests that make outdoor activities less fun in the summer. However, they’re actually vectors for several infectious diseases that pose significant health risks to the Edmonton community.

West Nile Virus, detected in Alberta, manifests symptoms ranging from mild flu-like signs to severe neurological effects in extreme cases. Zika Virus, though less common in Canada, draws global concern for its potential to cause congenital disabilities when pregnant women are infected.

The potential for these diseases to spread highlights the critical need for effective mosquito control strategies. Reducing mosquito populations minimizes the risk of outbreaks, protecting the community's health.

It highlights the importance of municipal efforts in monitoring and controlling mosquito habitats and individual actions, such as eliminating standing water on properties. Together, these strategies can provide a comprehensive defence against the health threats posed by mosquito infestations.

Understanding Mosquito Behaviour and Lifecycle

Understanding mosquito behaviour and its lifecycle is crucial in the fight against these pests. Mosquitoes go through four stages in their lifecycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. You can prevent an infestation by targeting mosquitoes at the early stages (especially the larva).

Mosquitoes are attracted to areas with standing water; that’s where they breed. In fact, the first three stages of their life cycle take place in water. You can be more proactive by making sure there’s no stagnant water in and around your yard.

In addition, you’ll see these annoying pests buzzing around you all day, but they’re most active at dusk and dawn.

Overview of Edmonton’s Mosquito Control Program

The City of Edmonton has developed a comprehensive Mosquito Control Program in response to the persistent challenge of mosquito infestations. The program looks to manage the mosquito population and mitigate the associated health risks.

The most important aspect of this initiative is the Ground Control Program (more on that later). As of the current year, the city’s dedicated team, equipped with specialised equipment and expert knowledge, is actively monitoring and addressing mosquito larvae development to keep the population in check.

This year marks a significant shift in strategy, with the city choosing not to pursue the Aerial Control Program that was part of past efforts. This decision was made due to the commitment to environmental stewardship and public health. Ground control methods will be prioritized since they’re both effective and have minimal impact on non-target species.

Key Components of the Mosquito Control Program

The Edmonton Mosquito Control Program is carefully designed to curb the mosquito population through scientifically backed methods and innovative enhancements.

Ground Control Activities

The Ground Control Program employs environmentally friendly larvicides that target mosquito larvae specifically. This, in turn, reduces potential risks to other wildlife and humans. This method aligns with Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency's guidelines to ensure a safe and responsible approach to pest control.

Program Enhancements

In addition to these established methods, the program has introduced several enhancements to improve mosquito control efforts further:

• Novel Biological Technology. The program explores using bat houses as a natural mosquito control measure. Bats are natural predators of mosquitoes and can significantly reduce mosquito populations. The City is considering installing up to 50 bat houses across Edmonton to encourage bat habitation.
• Habitat Modification: There will also be a focus on adjusting the landscape to make it less hospitable to mosquitoes. This means managing water levels and vegetation to disrupt breeding sites.
• Enhanced Biodiversity Surveillance and Monitoring: The City will continue to monitor mosquito populations and biodiversity to check if control measures are effective and that there’s minimal impact on non-target species. This will also help identify and promptly address any emerging mosquito-related challenges.

How Edmonton Residents Can Support Mosquito Control Efforts

Edmonton's battle against mosquitoes is a community effort, and you can contribute to reducing mosquito populations in several ways. The battle begins right there in your backyard.

• First, eliminate standing water. Regularly empty containers like bird baths, plant saucers, and rain barrels. Clearing gutters and ensuring downspouts are functioning properly can also prevent water from accumulating and becoming potential breeding sites.
• Next, invest in proactive mosquito control services. Our BuzzShield® Complete and BuzzShield® Insect’s seasonal or monthly application protects your yard and home from various insects. Professional technicians come to your home to create a line of defence, exterminate mosquitoes, and block them from entering your property.
• Landscaping can also play a role in mosquito control. Keep lawns mowed and bushes trimmed to get rid of resting places for adult mosquitoes.
• Plant mosquito-repellent plants such as lavender, marigold, and citronella around your yard to further deter these pests.
• Encourage the presence of dragonflies, another predator, by maintaining garden ponds or water features.

By taking these simple steps, you can significantly contribute to the citywide effort to control mosquito populations.

Buzz Boss’s Role and Partnership with the Red Cross

Beyond local efforts, Buzz Boss has doubled down on its efforts in mosquito control by partnering with the Red Cross. This collaboration is focused on combating mosquito-borne diseases in vulnerable regions worldwide.

By allocating a portion of the proceeds from each BuzzShield® Complete sale, Buzz Boss contributes to critical Red Cross programs. These initiatives provide essential medical aid, education, and preventive measures against diseases like dengue and Zika, demonstrating the profound global impact of local actions.

Join in On The Effort to Get Rid of Mosquitoes

Ready to protect your home from mosquitoes while making a positive impact both locally and globally? Buzz Boss gives you the chance to do that.

Don't wait for pests to become a problem; take proactive steps today. Contact Buzz Boss to learn more about our pest control services in Edmonton, and join us in making a lasting difference in the world. Together, we can create safer, pest-free environments for everyone.