Mosquito spraying begins May 21

Close your windows on Tuesday evening, or you might just feel some unpleasant irritation in your sinuses.

That’s because, on Tuesdays at dusk, Clarke will begin spraying the city for mosquitos and treating surface water for mosquito larvae starting May 21. The spraying will happen weekly at dusk as conditions allow, and are scheduled to end Sept. 10.

If it rains, the company will wait until it’s possible to move forward with the spraying. If there aren’t many mosquitos, the city withholds the right to cancel any given week.

Clarke uses ultra-low-volume spray, released by a truck-mounted sprayer that regulates itself based on the speed of the vehicle. The mist, known as Biomist 3+15 ULV, is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for the purpose its being used. More information on the insecticide is available at www.LonsdaelMN.com .

City Administrator Joel Erickson noted in a press release Monday that residents can help control mosquitos in the city by removing or emptying water in old tires, buckets and other stagnant water.

Unused swimming pools can be emptied, as well as changing the water in birdbaths, plant saucers and trays weekly. Water bowls for pets should also be emptied and refilled daily.

Screens should be in-tact and tight-fitting. Gutters around one’s home should be maintained to avoid water buildup. Even holes in the dirt can collect water and could be filled in to help mitigate that factor.

Boats can be stored upside down, covered or tilted, which he also said helps. Weeds and grass should be cut short, since adult mosquitos often use it as shade to rest.

Those with further questions about the program may contact Lonsdale City Hall by calling 507-744-2327, visiting the above Lonsdale website or contacting Clarke’s Mosquito Hotline Citizen Response at 1-800-942-2555.