SOLitude Lake Management recommends natural solutions to reduce mosquito population

At this time of year, mosquito infestations are peaking. SOLitude Lake Management, an industry leader in lake and pond management, fisheries management and related environmental services for the Mid-Atlantic and surrounding states, recommends the following natural and ecologically sustainable preventative and proactive measures to homeowners, landowners, homeowners associations and municipalities.

Eliminate standing water in artificial containers including flowerpots, buckets, corrugated drainage hoses or even hollowed tree stumps. This is the environment that the Asian Tiger Mosquito, which is the carrier of the West Nile virus among other diseases, likes to breed in. This insect has only a 200-yard flying radius, therefore infestations many times can be positively effected in the surrounding environment.

Create water flow in larger aquatic environments such as lakes, ponds and stormwater basins with aeration. Mosquitoes breed in warm, stagnant water, so the addition of an aerator or fountain will keep the water circulating and eliminate an environment that mosquitoes would consider for breeding.

Stock fish that feed on mosquito larvae in lakes, ponds and stormwater basins. There are many fish that can be added by a fisheries professional that will naturally feed on the larvae and therefore reduce the number of surviving adult mosquitoes. Consider stocking minnows annually in ponds to ensure there are sufficient quantities to achieve good results.

Plant vegetation that attracts dragonflies. Dragonflies feed on mosquito larvae and also adults. Studies have shown that a single dragonfly can eat up to hundreds of mosquitoes a day.

Biological larvicides can also be an excellent way to control mosquitoes. These naturally occurring, beneficial bacteria inhibit the viability of mosquito larvae, and pose no known risks to the environment when applied at the proper rates.

Learn more about SOLitude Lake Management and purchase products at www.solitudelakemanagement.com.