Nassau County - Long Island, New York

June 25, 2014

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It’s Mosquito Season in Nassau County

Mosquito season has begun. Many residents have contacted my office to alert me to the presence of mosquitoes and to ask about controlling the mosquito population. The first thing you should do is report your mosquito complaint to the Nassau County Department of Public Works at (516) 571-6900. Every complaint is investigated.

Next, it is important to know that mosquitoes are territorial by nature, and generally do not leave a 200 foot radius. This means that your mosquitoes are likely reproducing on or near your property. Please survey your property for anything that may hold standing water. Mosquitoes need standing water in which to grow and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

You can keep stop mosquito breeding on your property by:

  • Birdbaths – Change the water at least once a week
  • Containers – Empty them, turn them over or get rid of them! These include buckets, barrels, boats, pots, saucers, toys, etc.
  • Large-leafed or hollow-stemmed plants (ex. Bromeliads) – Rinse them with clean water at least once a week
  • Discarded tires – Dispose of them or cover to keep water out
  • Swimming pools and spas – Keep them well maintained, or cover them when not in use (but make sure water does not collect on top of the covers!)
  • Rain gutters – Keep them clear of leaves and dirt so they don’t get clogged and hold rain water
  • Fish ponds – keep them healthy and stocked with fish, which will eat mosquito eggs and larva
  • Catch basins and storm drains – Call DPW if you suspect mosquitoes are coming from these sources 571-6900

When will Nassau Spray pesticides to control the mosquito population?

The Nassau County Department of Health conducts mosquito surveillance at 42 trap sites throughout Nassau County to monitor health factors, including whether mosquitoes are carrying diseases, such as West Nile Virus.

Spraying pesticides by truck or airplane is an effective way to minimize the mosquito population and is utilized if and when a health concern is determined.

The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works utilize a decision matrix to determine if the step of spraying for adult mosquitos is warranted. The matrix parameters include: the extent of virus activity, mosquito populations, and climate. (This matrix was developed utilizing current New York State Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control guidance documents.)

You will be notified of all spraying in your area. Nassau has legislation that mandates telephonic notification to affected residents 24 hours prior to ground or aerial spraying. All listed phone numbers are automatically enrolled in the County’s calling list. To add your number, or to receive email or text notification, please visit: www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/OEM/signup.html

Potential Mosquito Breeding Sites Around Your Home

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