How?

The City of Red Deer treats nuisance mosquito larval populations with the microbial pesticide called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti). This pesticide is approved by Health Canada, is non-toxic and has no detrimental effects on animals and humans. Monitoring and control efforts are targeted, keeping our use of pesticides to a minimum.

The Mosquito Control Program operates in accordance with Pesticide Service Registration 254731-01-03.

Where?

The mosquito program area includes the city of Red Deer and treatment zones beyond the city limits.

When?

The program typically runs from April to August.

For more information on our Mosquito Control Program please view the Mosquito Control (pdf) pages from our Integrated Pest Management Manual.

West Nile Virus

The City of Red Deer is located in a part of the province that has been rated as a low priority for West Nile virus (WNv). The mosquito responsible for transmitting WNv is still found in Red Deer in low numbers. When located, it is treated as part of the nuisance mosquito program.

Protect yourself

Here are a few ways you can reduce your risk of mosquito bites while you enjoy summer activities:

• Reduce outdoor activities and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use a mosquito repellant containing DEET on skin and clothing, as mosquitoes may bite through fabric. Do not use DEET on children under six months of age. Always read the product label carefully and note extra precautions for use on children.
• Place mosquito netting over baby strollers and other infant carriers when outdoors.
• Place a mosquito netting or screen around your porch areas during peak mosquito activity.
• Keep all doors and windows screened and repair any holes in the screens.
• Avoid walking in areas of high humidity, such as creek and river valleys, during peak mosquito activity.

For more information please visit the Fight the Bite website.

Protect your yard

You can help reduce the mosquito population by eliminating areas where adult females may lay their eggs. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Cover rain barrels with screens or empty them on a regular basis (at least once a week).
• Remove discarded tires, cans, plastic containers or unused containers that can collect water.
• Clean out rotting leaf debris, which causes water to sit in rain gutters.
• Empty bird baths or other standing water weekly.
• Add a source of moving water to fish ponds or other backyard ponds. This will help prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in these locations.

Mosquitoes and you - Protect yourself, protect your yard (pdf)