Physical
control is usually the most effective method of mosquito control. The
term refers to making a environmental or physical change in a
mosquito-breeding place by physical or mechanical means. Physical
control is also known as “source reduction”. Ultimately, physically
changing the source can make the site less suitable for mosquito
production.
Physical control can be accomplished in a variety of
methods. Agricultural, industrial, residential and commercial sites all
have specific situations which are conducive to producing mosquitoes.
Property owners and residents can reduce mosquito production by
eliminating standing water on their properties.
In urban and suburban areas, District personnel will
observe mosquito-breeding conditions when conducting a premise survey of
a residence, upon which the owner is encouraged to make appropriate
repairs or alterations. Examples include draining water from above
ground swimming pools, fishponds, and other water holding receptacles
that are not actively used by the homeowner. Plumbing repairs to pipes
under buildings and properly maintained septic systems will also prevent
mosquito breeding.
Links to mosquito prevention guidelines for households, agriculture, stormwater treatment devices, wastewater treatment wetlands, and managed freshwater wetlands:
For general information about mosquitoes and mosquito control around
the home:
http://www.ucmrp.ucdavis.edu/publications/aboutmosquitoes.html
For general information about mosquitoes and recommendations for
mosquito prevention in agriculture:
http://www.ucmrp.ucdavis.edu/publications/managingmosquitoesonthefarm.html
For specific information about mosquito prevention in storm water
management systems:
http://www.ucmrp.ucdavis.edu/publications/managingmosquitoesstormwater8125.pdf
For specific information about mosquito prevention in wastewater
treatment wetlands:
http://www.ucmrp.ucdavis.edu/publications/managingmosquitoeswetlands8117.pdf
For specific information about mosquito prevention in managed
wetlands:
http://www.centralvalleyjointventure.org/materials/CVJV_Mosquito_BMP_rev.pdf
Links to laws and regulations re: mosquito control and legal abatement:
For specific information about laws and regulations governing
mosquito and vector control agencies in California:
http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=hsc&group=01001-02000&file=2000-2007
For specific information about laws and regulations governing legal
abatement of mosquito breeding sources on private and public property:
http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=hsc&group=02001-03000&file=2060-2067
