The city of Albert Lea has contracted with Mosquito Control of Iowa for mosquito control again this season. The company encourages any residents who may have questions to call them at (712) 848-3295 or visit their website, www.mosquitocontrolofiowa.com.

They are scheduled to begin service on Thursday, June 10, beginning at dusk. In the following weeks, application will be on Wednesday evenings, with Thursday evenings being the back up night in case of rain or high winds. This year, the majority of the control will be aerial spraying.

The product being used is Kontrol 4-4. This is a Permethrin-based product, which is extremely safe yet very effective against mosquitoes and gnats. This product has quick knockdown, low odor, and is non-corrosive.

This product is registered by the EPA and Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Even though we have selected the safest products for this use, common sense tells you that precaution should be used with any pesticide.

In addition to the adult mosquito control program, there are several things homeowners can do to reduce the local mosquito population:

Eliminate trash, tires and containers that may hold water creating a breeding site for mosquitoes.

Maintain rain gutters and down spouts. Make sure no water remains in them after a rain.

Empty and clean bird baths weekly.

Store pails barrels, tubs, boats and wheel barrows upside down.

Keep shrubs, lawns and weeds trimmed to eliminate harborage areas.

Encourage your neighbors to maintain their properties properly.

The city of Albert Lea and Mosquito Control of Iowa want to have a safe and effective mosquito control program this year. Trained personnel handling the equipment and insecticide are of utmost importance. They are encouraging community support and cooperation in their efforts.