Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The city of Albert Lea has contracted with Mosquito Control of Iowa for mosquito control this season.

They are scheduled to begin service on Sunday beginning at dusk. The application will be by ground. For the following weeks, application will be on Wednesday evenings, with Thursday being the rain date when possible.

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

The product is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency 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,” the release stated.

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 which 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, wheel barrows, etc. 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.

Any residents with questions are asked to call 712-848-3295 or visit www.mosquitocontrolofiowa.com.