The City of Cranbrook is taking steps to get ahead of a possible boom in the local mosquito population over the spring and summer.
City officials said contractors have already started their work over the last few weeks, targeting the insects in the larval stage.
This is done by placing a granular insecticide called Aquabac onto sites where larval mosquitoes are found.
“This larvicide contains a naturally occurring bacterium known as Bti, which targets mosquito larvae but does not harm birds, mammals, beneficial insects, or amphibians,” said city officials. “This product is registered for this use in Canada.”
City staff is asking you to do your part as well, by getting rid of standing water around your home or property.
Some places you should check include:
- Clogged gutters and ditches
- Trays under flowerpots
- Outside pets’ dishes
- Children’s pools and toys
- Untreated or unmaintained pools or ponds
- Bird baths and feeders
- Tarps
- Canoes/boats
- Tires
City officials said standing water provides a potential risk of mosquito development.
Contractors will be monitoring and treating any potential breeding sites through the spring and summer months.
“Please call the Mosquito Hotline at (250) 421-1294 to report potential mosquito development sites or for more information regarding the Mosquito Control Program,” said city staff.