We have scheduled additional targeted ground spraying for mosquito control on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 2 and 3, between 9:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors with their pets. Town Hall will also provide two free mosquito dunks per household, per month, while supplies last.
These additional efforts are in response to mosquitos from three of our five traps testing positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). Due to the mild winter and wet spring, our entire region is experiencing increased mosquito populations and more positive test results.
Mosquitos can breed in just *two tablespoons* of standing water. Survey your property, drain and prevent standing water, treat low-lying areas, and protect your family (especially at dawn and dusk). If you are aware of standing water or neglected pools in your neighborhood that may need to be addressed, please call 817-617-3700.
Mosquito dunks are the safest and most effective way to treat larger areas of water (up to 100 sqft. of surface area) or water that animals might drink. If you’re looking for more cost-effective ways to treat smaller water collection sites, consider these options:
Treat up to one gallon of standing water by adding one or two drops of liquid soap or shampoo and agitating slightly.
About 1/4 teaspoon of olive or vegetable oil (per gallon of water) can prevent mosquito eggs and larvae. However, avoid using these in ponds or birdbaths as oil can be harmful to wildlife.
In smaller water sources, like bird baths, add apple cider vinegar — about 15% of the total liquid — to disrupt mosquito larvae development. However, vinegar is less effective at killing mosquito eggs.
Again, mosquito dunks are the most effective option and the safest for any water that might be consumed by pets or wildlife because they employ a bacteria that is harmless to people and animals. Stop by Town Hall during regular business hours to pick up two free dunks.
Preventative monthly sprays are scheduled for the fourth Thursday of each month from April through September, between 9:30 and 11:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Additional ground sprays are typically added when a mosquito from a nearby trap tests positive for an arbovirus.
Residents are encouraged to subscribe to CodeRED alerts regarding scheduled and emergency ground sprays to be reminded to stay inside along with their pets during these sprays.
What else can you do to protect your yard and family? Follow the 4 D’s:
🦟 DUSK to DAWN: stay indoors when mosquitoes are active
🦟 DRAIN: prevent and eliminate standing water in flower pots, toys, gutters, and wading pools
🦟 DRESS: opt for light-colored long sleeves and pants
🦟 DEET: apply repellent when outdoors