Mosquito Control

• surveillance
• identification
• data collection
• monitoring
• treatment of mosquito-producing sites

When sites meet regulated levels, specific identified surface water is treated with environment-friendly larvicide called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti). Bti-coated corn pellets are distributed by two effective methods: 

• hand or backpack spreader via foot or boat access
• aerial spreading dropped from a helicopter

Nuisance mosquito species are not typically associated with the spread of West Nile virus.

Adulticiding (the ”spraying” or “fogging” of insecticide) to control adult mosquitoes, is considered an extreme option and is not used as a primary means of mosquito control in the region. Adult mosquito control is expressly excluded from the regional mosquito Pest Management Plan.

It is important to note that due to human health and environmental risks associated with airborne distribution of insecticide, adulticide mosquito control methods have not been used in the region since 2003. This method would likely only be used under specific direction of the Medical Health Authority, such as in an outbreak of West Nile virus.

The Township of Langley uses education initiatives to help spread the word about risk reduction, and to help residents mitigate mosquito breeding habitat from around their homes.

Practice the 4 Ds for reducing mosquito risks:

1. Drain your property of unwanted standing water
2. Dusk/dawn: take extra care at these times
3. Dress appropriately: wear light-coloured, loose fitting clothing with long sleeves
4. Defend against mosquito bites by using mosquito repellents

It is important to keep residential or business property free of standing and stagnant water. This helps reduce the number of mosquitoes in your neighbourhood as most mosquitoes fly about one to three kilometres from their breeding site. Follow these simple practices to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on your property.

1. Old tires should be disposed of or moved inside. Do not let outside containers, equipment, or debris collect water - recycle, drill holes in, or overturn them when not in use.
2. Eavestroughs should be kept clean to allow proper water drainage. Flat roofs should be kept free of standing water.
3. Storm drains and lawn basins should be kept free of debris such as yard waste, lawn cuttings, and leaves.
4. Roof downspouts should be properly designed and maintained to prevent standing water.
5. Leaky faucets should be repaired to prevent water build-up or pooling on the ground.
6. Windows and attic vents should be adequately screened and maintained to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
7. Stagnant water located in birdbaths should be changed weekly. Rain barrels should be covered with fine mesh and wheelbarrows overturned when not in use.
8. Ponds should be maintained. Using pumps or fountains to keep water circulating reduces mosquito breeding.
9. Swimming pools should have operating chlorine and circulation systems. Wading pools should be overturned when they are not in use.
10. Compost should be turned frequently to keep well-aerated.

Mosquito habitats are located throughout the Township of Langley, with the vast majority along the Fraser River foreshore area; affecting Fort Langley, Glen Valley, Derby Reach, and Walnut Grove.

Nuisance Mosquito Reports and Maps
Read the 2020 Metro Vancouver Nuisance Mosquito Control Program summary report.

Regional Control Contractor
Morrow BioScience Ltd. is the regional professional mosquito control contractor. Contact Morrow BioScience Ltd. by calling the Mosquito Hotline at 604-432-6228. Learn more about Morrow BioScience Ltd. on their website, Facebook, and Twitter.

West Nile Virus, Zika Virus, or Any Other Health Topics
Township of Langley does not run virus related programs. For the latest information on the Zika Virus or West Nile Virus, visit the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control or  Health Canada and search ‘virus’ in their search bar. For health issues, visit HealthLinkBC or call 8-1-1.