North Bay vector control to offer mosquitofish to curb early insect outbreak

Vector control officials are urging North Coast residents to take action against a mosquito hatch that’s come weeks ahead of usual this year, due to unseasonably warm weather and occasional periods of rain.

Mosquito-breeding areas may be right in your back yard - from a septic tank to a rain barrel to an old tire that still holds some rainfall.

Residents are urged to check for any standing water and install mosquito-proof mesh screens where necessary, seal cracks and lids on septic tanks, empty receptacles that may hold water and report neglected swimming pools, the Marin-Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District said.

The district also will have mosquitofish available for free starting on April 17 - a month ahead of usual - for use in ponds and water features, where the fish consume mosquito larvae.

The district says calls for service are 100 percent higher this year compared with the same time last year. And while technicians are available to help with problems and treat larger bodies of water like creeks and ponds, there is much an individual resident can do.

Residents can arrange to pick up mosquitofish at the district’s Cotati office, 595 Helman Lane, or by calling 800-231-3236. The fish also can be ordered online.

More information is available at www.msmosquito.com.

You can reach Staff Writer Mary Callahan at 521-5249 or mary.callahan@pressdemocrat.com. On Twitter @MaryCallahanB.