Mosquito control

How it works

From April through September, known breeding locations throughout the participating areas of the region are inspected for signs of mosquito larvae. Duka Environmental Services helps to provide mosquito control services. Staff regularly sample over 300 known mosquito development sites. During late June and July, the program also controls larval development by monitoring, and if necessary treating approximately 12,000 roadside catch basins located along public roadways and residential streets. These are treated by technicians using scooters. 2022 Curbside Catch basin program

If active breeding is found, environmentally-friendly larvicide pellets are spread into the water, which kills the larvae within 24 hours. The areas are visited regularly to ensure there are no new hatches.

The areas that can be treated are specifically licensed under Provincial regulations. The Regional District is in contact with public health officials and those from member municipalities to monitor the breeding conditions.

• 2021 program report

Report a problem 

Report a nuisance mosquito area:

• Call Duka Environmental Services at 1-800-681-3472
• Fill out an online service request form 

Actions you can take to reduce nuisance mosquitoes

• Outside containers of water should be emptied or covered. This includes things like rain barrels, old tires and even saucers under plant pots
• If you have a birdbath or wading pool you should change the water at least twice a week
• If you have a pond, put fish in it so they'll eat the larvae and install a device to keep water circulating
• Drain all areas of standing water. Ensure eves troughs are clear and that water doesn't collect in them
• Water on top of pool covers can be a potential breeding source. Try placing a basketball or some other floating object underneath the cover so that water won't gather on top of the cover
• Ensure your screens snuggly fit into door and window frames and replace if there are holes or tears

Reduce mosquito bites

• Wear light-coloured long-sleeve shirts, long pants and a hat - dark colours attract mosquitoes
• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET or appropriate alternatives and follow label directions

Additional resources

• HealthLink BC - West Nile Virus
• Interior Health - Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus
• BC Centre for Disease Control - Insect repellent choices for adults and children