Services We Offer
The following are services we offer. Submit a request by clicking on the title:
Horse troughs can be a huge problem in the battle against mosquitoes. Because mosquitoes develop from an egg to an adult in a relatively short period, in some situations as little as a week, we ask horse owners to be dilligent in making sure that horse troughs get emptied or cleaned at least once a week. In order to help horse owners with this important aspect of mosquito control, the district has a crew dedicated to controlling mosquitoes that may breed in horse troughs. This crew can provide information, advice, and--at the owners request--a briquet that can be placed in the horse trough to provide 150 days of mosquito control. These briquets are very safe, as the mode of action is not to kill the mosquito, but to prevent it from growing into adulthood. To learn more about this product, called Altosid, visit our pesticides page. To request a visit by one of our technicians click here.
Ornamental Ponds (also known as Backyard Ponds) are another great place for mosquitos to breed. Backyard ponds often contribute to spreading mosquitoes and mosquito born illness. The best solution for avoiding a mosquito problem is to keep your pond well maintained. Ponds should have filters, pumps, and be cleaned regularly to ensure good flow and clean water. In addition to these measures the district provides two options to pond owners to aid in mosquito control. The first option is a mosquito fish known as Gambusia affinis. These fish are very efficient at ensuring that mosqutio larvae do not last long in any backyard pond. Those who prefer an alternative to mosquito fish can request an Altosid briquet. These briquets offer residual mosquito conrol lasting 30-150 days. These briquets are very target-specific and our safe in ponds that contain other wildlife. For more information on Altosid visit our pesticides page. To request a visit by one of our technicians click here.
Standing water of any kind has the potential to produce mosquitoes. While most of the major locations around the district with standing water have already been mapped, recorded, and regularly inspected, we do appreciate being notified of new or unknown mosquito sources. Many sources around the neighborhood can be eliminated through community involvement, but if additional help is necessary we are available. When a new mosquito source is reported to us we will compare it to our database and take the proper course of action to ensure that it does not become a problem. To request a visit by one of our technicians click here.
The western tree hole mosquito--Oclaritatus sierrensis--is a mosquito common in the eastern bench areas of the Salt Lake Valley. As its name suggests this mosquito lays its eggs in wet tree holes typically found in older gnarled trees. Tree hole mosquitoes are aggressive biters and can be a real nuisance, but beyond this they are the primary vectors of dog heartworm. If you suspect you have a problem with tree hole mosquitoes please contact us and we will send one of our trained technicians to have a look around. To request a visit by one of our technicians click here.
While the main focus of the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement is larval control, we do have a program designed to reduce adult mosquito populations if they become too much of a nuisance, or if it is determined that there is a risk to public health. Prior to fogging in any particular area we place a trap to verify the presence of a large adult mosquito population. In addition to traps placed twice weekly, we have a number of traps that can be placed per citizen request. Once we have determined if fogging is needed we will proceed with fogging an area. We always fog after sunset to ensure we avoid non-target insects and large crowds of people. We recognize the concern some have with exposure to pesticide and we are committed to using our pesticides according to the FDA approved pesticide label. Those with further concerns can fill out a "no spray request". (note: completing the request does not guarantee adulticiding will not occur in the area, but all consideration possible will be taken). To request a visit from one of our technicians click here.
In addition to mosquito control the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District is responsible for black fly control within the district. In addition to being a nuisance insect, black flies can cause problems for farmers and ranchers as black flies will bite livestock, eating eyes, ears, and reproductive organs. Black flies grow in running water and are found in the Jordan River, canals, and ditches. Black flies fly in irradically and in swarms. If you notice a black fly problem please feel free to contact us and we can come and investigate. To request a visit from one of our technicians click here.
Other Services
In addition to the service mentioned above the District provides services intended to treat catch basins that contain standing water, a weekly trapping route, and other services as situations warrant. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns.