Mosquito Control
We are aware that, from time to time, mosquitoes can become a nuisance. The Shire is engaged in a mosquito control program.
This includes:
- Treatment of standing water with a larvicide to kill mosquito larvae (‘wrigglers’)
- Fogging to control the adult population. To minimise impact on residents this will take place at dusk (when they are most active). Due to the cost of the chemicals used, fogging is a relatively expensive exercise and will only be intermittent and dependent upon wind and weather conditions.
- Looking at infrastructure changes we can make to eliminate recurring standing water
Together these methods can help to break the mosquito breeding cycle – but they are not entirely effective without help from our community.
How Can I Help?
Are mosquitoes a problem at your place? They rarely travel far, so it is likely they are living and breeding on or near your property. We suggest you:
- Empty out standing water that they could breed in
- Tidy up any debris which might be serving as a breeding ground
- Talk to your neighbours and help them do the same
- Utilise mosquito coils or other repellents when outside
- Consider treating cool, shaded areas (like eaves, or other locations you notice mosquitoes congregating) with a residual insecticide
- Let us know! We can help treat standing water on or near your property which might be serving as a breeding ground that can’t be emptied out
You can contact the Shire on 9928 1102 or email enquiries@mingenew.wa.gov.au to report mosquito problem areas.
What Products Do You Use?
We use a Pyrethrin-based fogging agent and the granules a formulation of bacteria specifically targeted to control mosquito larvae. We are aware of community concerns following previous fogging efforts and have made great effort to ensure that the products we use are as safe as possible for residents and pets, whilst also being effective against mosquitoes.
None of our products are considered hazardous by Work Safe Australia. That said, it is not advisable to inhale the vapour when fogging is taking place.
We will provide advance warning of fogging via our Facebook Page and through our SMS Public Communications Service.
What Else Can I Do to Control Mosquitoes?
Due to our climate and the amount of vegetation in and around Mingenew, mosquitoes are a common and natural part of our environment – even if they aren’t a welcome one. There is plenty you can do around your home to try to discourage and control them.
If you would like to know more, go to the Department of Health’s website to learn more about how you can protect yourself and your family: click here.