Everybody agrees that one of the most annoying insects in warm weather is the mosquito. They swarm around us, they buzz, and they bite! All of that is irritating enough, but the real problem with mosquitoes is that they are major carriers of blood-borne disease to both humans (such as West Nile Virus and malaria) and animals. This means that mosquitoes are a problem not only from a human comfort standpoint, but also for farmers and others who keep animals. The most effective method for fighting mosquito presence is the use of mosquito misting systems.
Basically, a mosquito misting system consists of a reservoir containing some sort of insect repellent and or insecticide. The solution is then sprayed into the environment to be protected. The most common chemical used in these systems is pyrethrum, which is a very common insecticide. Derived from the seed oil of the chrysanthemum flower, pyrethrum has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use around humans, domestic and farm animals for over thirty years. It has also served ass the model for many of the developed chemical insecticides. Pyrethrum also has the advantage of serving as an ongoing deterrent as well as an immediate insect killer.
There are various grades and configurations of these pest control systems, ranging from the very simple (a spray bottle) to the more commonly considered automated systems that are connected to a timer. These systems consist of the pesticide reservoir, whatever tubing or pipe system is necessary for delivery, and however many spray nozzles are attached. Typically, a timer is set for a certain interval or time of day. When the system is started, the insecticide is sprayed for the prescribed amount of time. Installation of the systems do usually require professional services. Once installed, they are reported to be reasonably reliable, with only routine maintenance required. Many pest control companies sell the upkeep service as part of the package.
There are some legal restrictions involved with misting systems. The Environmental Protection Agency does not regulate the systems themselves, though it does regulate and approve the chemicals and or natural insecticides that may be used in them. Mot states do have laws regarding the systems and or the pesticides. These restrictions are another reason it is a good idea to have the systems designed and installed by a qualified, licensed installer. These professionals will also insure that the systems are calibrated and set properly so that the correct amounts of pesticides are being applied.
Craig Borglum CIC/CID/CLIA is a Certified and Licensed Irrigation Specialist in Central Florida. More information and articles on how-to mosquito control solutions, click on natural mosquito control.