The Town of Highland Park Parks Department and Dallas County Health and Human Services monitors several mosquito traps within the town limits.
Mosquito samples from each trap are tested on a weekly basis for: 1) total number of adult mosquitoes in each trap; and 2) the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV). This week, the mosquito samples in traps on both the east and west side of town were found to be above the treatable threshold as established by the Town’s Mosquito Control Policy. In response, the Parks Department will conduct ground spraying measures town wide to reduce the density of adult mosquito populations. The Town’s decision to use adulticide is based on the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendations that surveillance data, when combined with established thresholds, indicates a necessity to reduce the density of adult mosquito populations quickly to lower the risk of WNV.
Friday, June 12: Weather permitting, mosquito ground spraying will begin at 10:00 p.m. and conclude by 5:00 a.m., town wide.
Ground spraying measures will include the public rights-of-way and the Town’s tennis courts. In the event of rain or wind speeds above 10 m.p.h. will not permit the mosquito ground spraying. Highland Park residents should remain inside and protect pets during the time the sprayers are in your area. Any pet water dishes left outside should be cleaned after spraying.
Mosquitoes are known to be most active in the dawn and dusk periods of the day: wearing long sleeves and pants during these periods is recommended. Mosquitoes prefer cool, moist environments, and be mindful of those areas that collect water (flowerpot basins, pet dishes, clogged rain gutters, recycle/trash receptacles). The improper storage of certain materials such as stacked firewood, vegetation clippings, or compost may hold or trap water. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when using insect repellent.
Commercial products for yard applications are available at local home improvement stores. Mosquito dunks are available at no cost to residents at Town Hall.