The Town of Highland Park Parks Department and Dallas County Health and Human Services monitors several mosquito traps within the town limits. Mosquito samples from each trap are tested on a weekly basis for: (1) total number of adult mosquitoes in each trap; and (2) the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV). Currently there has not been a positive mosquito sample for WNV; however, the total number of mosquitoes in each trap has reached the treatable threshold as established by the Town’s Mosquito Control Policy, therefore, the Parks Department will conduct ground spraying measures to reduce the density of adult mosquito populations. The Town’s decision to use adulticide is based on the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendations that surveillance data, when combined with established thresholds, indicates a necessity to reduce the density of adult mosquito populations quickly to lower the risk of WNV.
Ground spraying measures for the Town of Highland Park will be conducted on July 9 and July 10. The ground spraying will include the Highland Park Pool and tennis courts. The following is a breakdown of the dates, times and locations:
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July 9- 8 to 10 p.m.: Highland Park Pool area and unoccupied tennis courts
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July 9- 10 p.m to 5 a.m.: Truck mounted ground spraying throughout town
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July 10- 8 to 10 p.m.: Highland Park Pool area and unoccupied tennis courts
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July 10- 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.: Truck mounted ground spraying throughout town
While it is more common for municipalities to conduct ground spraying when a single trap captures 100 mosquitoes, the Town conservatively initiates this step at 50 mosquitoes. Similarly, the Town provides ground spraying for two consecutive days while the many other municipalities spray only one day. Both these Town efforts are examples of its conservative approach to managing mosquito populations. In the event of rain or wind speeds in excess of 10 m.p.h., the spraying will be rescheduled. Highland Park residents should remain inside and protect pets during the time the sprayers are in your area. Any pet water dishes left outside should be cleaned after spraying.
In addition to the spraying, Highland Park Public Works Department has been locating and eliminating standing water in low lying areas of public right-of-ways. Individuals are encouraged to survey their yard for any areas with standing water, such as flower pot basins, bird baths and pet dishes. Shrubbery and landscaping near the foundation harbor mosquitoes during the day due to the cool, moist environment. Mosquitoes are known to be most active in the dawn and dusk periods of the day. Individuals are encouraged to limit outdoor exposure during these times. The use of insect repellant is highly recommended. Always follow manufacturer’s directions when using mosquito repellant or insect spray. Commercial products for yard applications are available at local home improvement stores or at Town Hall.