Barbara Cannady for Burns Times-Herald

Harney County has joined Burns and Hines in contracting with Three Rivers Mosquito and Vector Control (TRMVC), of Klamath Falls, to address areas within four miles of the Cities. Spraying normally begins a week before Memorial Day, but may move forward depending upon weather and flooding stages. Moving water areas will be avoided. Mosquito larvas are more concentrated in stagnant ponds and surrounding grasses.

“TRMVC utilizes an integrated approach to control (not exterminate) mosquitoes, starting with the least toxic methods. Our goal is to reduce the mosquitoes to a tolerable, safe level, using the least amount of pesticides. Larval control, using source reduction and larvicides are the primary measures. If we can resolve the trouble-causing sources, adulticides become less needed,” states their website.

Standing water around homes and businesses can also be breeding grounds. Mosquito larva eating fish can be added to backyard ponds and livestock water troughs to control larva. TRMVC also has tablets composed of a soil bacteria, Spinsoad, which kills mosquito larva and black flies.   

Spraying means will include ATV’s, pick-ups and drones. Once commenced, spraying will be scheduled every other week. Emphasis will be placed on large social events such as Obsidian Days and the County Fair, for disease control as well as comfort. Mosquitoes carry West Nile virus and encephalitis.  

Two cases of human contracted West Nile virus were reported in Harney County last year. HIPPA privacy rules have intervened with the identification of location. Three Rivers is asking anyone having knowledge of an area of outbreak (human, equine or wildlife) to notify them so they can provide the most effective treatments. The public is also encouraged to contact Three Rivers if they prefer their specific area not be treated.

For more information on accessibility of Spinsoad tablets, fish, scheduling or service requests, contact Edward Horvath, 9 a.m–5 p.m., Monday–Friday, 541-238-2272, http://harneymosquito.org or info@trmvc.com.