How to Manage Pests

Mosquitoes

Managing Mosquitoes on the Farm Section 1: Why You Should Care About Mosquito Control Published 2005 Sections of this publication:

Why You Should Care About Mosquito Control West Nile Virus You May Be Raising the Mosquito That Is Biting You! Mosquito Prevention Three Basic Principles of Mosquito Prevention Natural Waters Associated With Farms Managing Stagnant Waters Created by Agricultural Activities Irrigated Fields for Upland Crops Mosquito-Free Irrigated Pastures Rice Dairy Operations Biological and Chemical Mosquito Control Common Mosquitoes and Their Life Cycles Acknowledgments For More Information

Most people dislike mosquitoes and are aware of the diseases and discomfort that they cause. While a minority of growers accepts mosquito problems as a part of rural life, there are many excellent reasons why everyone should pitch in to minimize mosquito problems in their area.

First, mosquitoes carry diseases to people. Your family, neighbors, and employees are particularly susceptible to mosquito-borne diseases because farming operations may create places where mosquitoes can breed and live. West Nile virus and other types of mosquito-borne viruses are present in California. These viruses can cause infections that may be fatal or lead to permanent brain damage. Other serious mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever are introduced into the state periodically by travelers. Keeping mosquito populations under control helps keep these diseases from becoming established.

Second, mosquitoes threaten livestock and pets. Animals tormented by mosquitoes do not feed properly. If attacked by mosquitoes, cows give less milk, and beef cattle, sheep, and poultry may suffer losses in weight. Mosquitoes may transmit viruses that cause encephalitis in horses. Horses infected by West Nile virus have over a 30 percent chance of dying or becoming disabled. Mosquitoes also transmit dog heartworm and can also carry the virus that causes myxomytosis in rabbits. See your veterinarian to get your animals protected against these diseases.

Third, mosquito problems can decrease property values and cause labor problems. Areas infested with mosquitoes are less desirable places to live and work. Farmworkers may refuse to work if a serious mosquito problem exists. Homeowners and their families and guests find it difficult to enjoy barbecues, ball games, gardening, or other outdoor activities when plagued by mosquitoes.

Managing Mosquitoes on the Farm, UC ANR Publication 8158 Sharon P. Lawler and Gregory C. Lanzaro, Department of Entomology, University of California, Davis

Copyright © 2005 The Regents of the University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. All rights reserved.