Eliminate Standing Water to Reduce Mosquito Populations

A smooth, velvet-like Crabapple lawn isn’t only an aesthetic plus, it is a health benefit to residents as well. Poorly graded lawns can have low spots that collect and hold water, turning the property into mosquito spa. These blood-thirsty insect pests generally do not travel far from their original breeding grounds, so targeting and eliminating standing water can help reduce nearby mosquito populations. Make sure water isn't pooling in your yard, in recreational areas or on lawns that you manage.

According to the Georgia State Department of Public Health, several mosquito-borne viruses circulate in Georgia each year and are capable of causing disease in humans and other animals. The most common mosquito-borne viruses in Georgia include West Nile virus, Eastern Equine encephalitis virus, and LaCrosse virus. Saint Louis encephalitis virus has also been detected in Georgia in the past. Mosquito-borne viruses are most active late spring through early fall in Georgia.

If there are large numbers of mosquitoes on the property you manage or in your subdivision, residents could be at increased risk of infection. Always take personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites, especially when mosquito-borne viruses have been identified near you.

To permanently fix drainage problems, as the property manager, you'll probably need the help of Crabapple LandscapExperts who can evaluate evidence of standing water, re-grade the property where needed, and improve your drainage systems to physically eliminate this threat. Neighborhood-wide mosquito spraying may also be helpful to treat infested locations. Ask your Rep from Crabapple LandscapExperts for his/her recommendations.  

Mosquito photo thanks to southerneducationdesk.org