Mosquito Control: Protecting Our Community Year-Round
In the latest episode of the Chatham County podcast, Public Information Director Catherine Glasby speaks with Ture Carlson, director of the Mosquito Control Department, about the vital role this team plays in managing mosquito populations and reducing health risks throughout the county.
Since its establishment in 1956, Chatham County Mosquito Control has been working to combat both nuisance mosquitoes and those that carry diseases, such as the West Nile virus. As a coastal community, Chatham County experiences unique challenges, especially after heavy rains or tropical storms like Debby, which recently brought extensive rainfall and flooding. Ture explains that these conditions can lead to a spike in mosquito populations, impacting both residents and recovery efforts.
Ture shares how Mosquito Control uses a combination of aerial sprays, ground surveillance, and community awareness campaigns to reduce mosquito activity and prevent disease. The team also collaborates with other county agencies for aerial support during storm responses, providing real-time visuals to assist in monitoring flood levels and aiding in search-and-rescue missions.
One way residents can help is by following the “Tip and Toss” method. By removing standing water from items around the yard, residents can prevent mosquitoes from breeding in small, overlooked areas. Mosquito Control offers additional resources to residents, such as providing mosquito-eating fish for backyard ponds.
Residents can also stay updated by signing up for spray notifications on the Chatham County website or through the My Chatham app, where they can report mosquito issues or make other service requests, such as reporting a pothole.
Listen to the audio version on your favorite podcast app or visit: https://chathamcountyga.gov/OurCounty/Podcast
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