Surveillance
Where is mosquito larvae found?
Mosquito larvae can be found in any stagnate water which can include irrigation ponds, ditches, sloughs, marshes, ornamental ponds and even rain gutters. The district is given written permission from landowners to survey and treat water sources on private property.
Why is there a need for surveillance of mosquito larvae?
Surveillance of treated water sources ensure that only mosquito larvae is targeted. By preforming surveillance on mosquito larvae, the district can effectively prevent mosquito larvae from maturing into adults that could potentially transmit the virus to the community and or livestock.
When does surveying happen?
Throughout the season, starting in early April through September monitors are out in the field during the day time hours preforming surveillance surveys. Data collected from surveillance determines what product is used for treatment of that water source.
How is surveillance preformed?
Each monitor is equipped with a "dip cup". A "dip cup" is a white plastic cup attached to a wooden pole and is used to take water samples that may contain mosquito larvae. The monitors take a minimum of five (5) dips per water source depending on the size. If larvae is present in the dip cup the monitor will count and record there finding in the districts surveillance records. If any aquatic life like dragonflies, bees, birds, or fish are found that information would be recorded as well.
