Personalized Property Inspections (House Calls)

Mosquito Management technicians are available for personal property inspections.  During a "house call," the technician will seek the source of the problem and provide solutions.  Solutions may include eliminating stand water, providing mosquitofish to permanent water, and applying safe and effective larvicides.  By state law, spraying for adult mosquitoes requires collection of data showing need.  Call for more information.

Tips for preventing mosquitoes...

County-Wide Mosquito Management

The county's mosquito management program is based on integrated pest management (IPM) methods. IPM utilizes biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimizes health, environmental and economic risks.  The least toxic methods possible are used in a "precision targeting" approach.

• Prevention
  The staff advises developers and civil engineers on building and maintaining storm water systems that do not produce mosquitoes.
• Habitat elimination
  Emphasis is put on controlling water lettuce and water hyacinth, exotic (non-native) plants that support larval mosquitoes.
• Larval management 
  Technicians routinely inspect for mosquito larvae and treat stagnant water.
• Spraying for adult mosquitoes
  Spraying is performed according to state guidelines and only when necessary to protect the health and well-being of the public. 
  More info on Mosquito Spraying in Sarasota County...

Outreach & Monitoring

• Mosquitofish
  Mosquito Management Services stocks permanent and semi-permanent water bodies with minnows called mosquitofish. These native fish eat mosquito larvae in ponds and lakes, ditches, rain barrels, water gardens, animal troughs and other potential sources of mosquitoes. County residents may inquire about obtaining mosquitofish by calling (941) 861-5000.

• Mosquito Classes, Presentations, & Mentoring
  Mosquito Management Services provides classes and presentations on mosquito biology, diseases, and prevention.  Customized presentations are available for homeowner's associations and other organizations (handouts are provided). Science teachers may request classes on aquatic insects or bioassays on the efficacy of larvicides. Students are encouraged to ask for mentoring on related science projects.

• Mosquito-borne diseases
  Mosquito Management Services works closely with other DOH-Sarasota offices to monitor and prevent the transmission of diseases by mosquitoes.

More information:

• Contact the County Contact Center:  (941) 861-5000