LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Agency to put the bite on mosquitoes

The annual campaign to combat mosquitoes in Lucas County begins this month.

With the beginning of adult mosquito control activities on Monday, this summer marks the 68th season of mosquito control services provided by the Toledo Area Sanitary District since its formation in 1945, after Ottawa Hills residents petitioned for its creation.

Using only Environmental Protection Agency-approved products that are applied by licensed and trained professionals, TASD operates an environmentally conscious, effective, and efficient mosquito control program that serves as a model for Ohio and other Midwest states.

Though often identified by night “fogging” trucks, TASD seeks to control mosquitoes in all stages of their development. The program includes reducing water sources where mosquitoes breed, public education, disease surveillance, mosquito population surveillance, and larval and adult control services.

In addition to providing relief from mosquitoes that can preclude the enjoyment of outdoor activities, TASD plays a role in protecting the public health of the community. West Nile virus may be the first in a series of exotic diseases imported to our part of the country by increased eco-tourism and international travel. Malaria, dengue fever, and chikungunya virus are all a plane ride away from arrival in Lucas County.

The public can help TASD by keeping properties free of containers that can hold water and breed mosquitoes, such as tires, cans, bottles, baby pools, planters, and abandoned swimming pools. People should notify TASD of properties and locations that hold floodwater for more than seven days after a rain.

TASD can be reached at 419-726-7891, Monday through Friday, for information about mosquito control and the services it provides year-round. Details about services and a schedule of operations can be found at tasd-mosquitoes.org.

PAUL BAUMAN

Biologist

Toledo Area Sanitary District

Stickney Avenue