Sioux Falls begins seasonal mosquito spraying

Around-the-clock mosquito control is about to start in Sioux Falls.

The city’s annual program typically runs from early spring through October to reduce mosquito populations and help protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses.

It was established in 2000 to protect public health, particularly from West Nile virus, which historically has affected South Dakota at one of the highest per capita rates in the nation.

“Our mosquito control program is focused on reducing the risk of mosquito-borne illness while helping residents enjoy the outdoors safely throughout the summer,” Jaimie Roggenbauer, the city’s public health program manager, said in a statement. “Through monitoring, treatment and public education, we’re working proactively to protect the community from West Nile virus.”

To manage mosquito activity across Sioux Falls, the city is divided into 20 spray zones that mosquito control crews monitor daily. Staff use strategically placed mosquito traps throughout the city to track mosquito populations and identify species that may carry disease. Crews also inspect standing water for mosquito larvae and treat breeding sites before mosquitoes reach adulthood.

When mosquito trap counts increase or mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus, staff conduct targeted spraying operations during peak mosquito activity periods to reduce adult mosquito populations.

The city sprays when weather conditions are favorable, including temperatures above 55 degrees, calm winds and no rain, to ensure that treatments are effective. Mosquito control trucks use ultra-low-volume sprayers that release a fine mist that reaches approximately 300 feet, about the length of a football field, allowing crews to effectively treat large areas without driving down every street.

The spray is EPA-approved and is safe for people, pets and the environment when applied as directed.

Residents can stay informed about mosquito spraying activities by signing up for text alerts through the city’s mosquito notification system at siouxfalls.gov/alerts. Notifications provide updates on planned spraying operations and affected spray zones. Residents also can use the interactive spray zone map to find their designated area by searching their address at siouxfalls.gov/mosquito.

The city recommends five basic ways residents can help protect against mosquitoes:

• Avoid mosquito exposure during peak activity hours in the early morning and evening.
• Wear long sleeves and pants to reduce exposed skin.
• Use insect repellent.
• Remove standing water from your property to eliminate breeding areas.
• Conduct localized do-it-yourself mosquito control on your property if necessary.

Residents can report concerns to the Sioux Falls Health Department environmental section online at siouxfalls.gov/report, on the city of Sioux Falls mobile app or by calling 605-367-8284.