Drain, dress, defend; Free mosquito fish for residents

mosquito fishMedford, Ore. — Drain, dress, and defend, that’s the advice from Jackson County Vector Control District for protecting against mosquitos. And for those who have backyard ponds or other man-made bodies of water that don’t drain into a natural water source, the district offers free mosquito fish to help manage the insects .

“They’re a top water predatory fish,” Biologist Jim Lunders says, “so they eat at the water’s surface, that’s where mosquito larvae hang out.”

If you’re interested just stop by the office on Mosquito Lane to fill out some paperwork.

Here are some additional tips to reduce you and your pet’s risk from mosquito borne disease:

  •  Eliminate all sources of standing water that can be a breeding ground for biting mosquitoes, such as flooded fields, birdbaths, wading pools & swimming pools not in use, clogged gutters and old tires. If it holds water for 7 days, it can produce mosquitoes.
  •  Stock mosquito fish in water troughs and ornamental ponds, they are available free at the District Office.
  •  Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
  •  Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when in mosquito-infested areas.
  •  Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, IR3535 or Picaridin, making sure to follow the directions on the container.
  •  Make sure all screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.
  •  Vaccinate horses for WNV.
  •  Use flea and tick control products that also control mosquitoes.
  •  Use Heartworm control products year round.
  •  Use EPA registered residual insect sprays on horses making sure to follow the direction on the container.

 

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