Larvicide Overview

Larvicides are both chemical and biological products applied to water that either kill or inhibit the development of immature mosquitoes.  Larviciding is an integral part of our mosquito control program.  Our staff spends much of each day looking for and treating mosquito breeding areas throughout the county.  Mosquitoes are easiest to control in the earlier stages of their life because they remain in water until they become adults (see mosquito biology).    These EPA registered larvicides are applied by licensed and trained staff to areas of water where the mosquitoes are growing.  We are able to eliminate great numbers of mosquitoes before they become flying adults by using the appropriate larvicides.  The Franklin County Board of Health makes it a priority to use the most effective larvicides with the least environmental impact.

For a complete list of larvicides used click HERE  

Catch Basin Treatment
As part of our commitment to mosquito control, each spring our staff implements a comprehensive catch basin (storm drain) treatment program throughout the county.  We inspect catch basins and use historical data and mapping to determine whether or not it is designed to hold water or is holding water.  Once identified, these “true” catch basins are treated with Altosid XR extended release briquettes (click HERE to see an Altosid XR briquette).  These small briquettes inhibit the growth and development of mosquitoes and are designed to remain effective for up to 150 days which can provide control throughout the mosquito season.  The treated catch basins are also monitored to ensure that the larvicides are working.  If necessary, the catch basin will be treated again.