Our main goal at AVMVC is to reduce the number of mosquitoes within our District boundaries to a tolerable level and to monitor outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases, e.g. Western Equine Encephalitis. This allows the full use and enjoyment of our backyards and our many recreational facilities, mosquito-free agricultural and industrial working conditions, and the protection of public health and comfort. We accomplish it by monitoring and treating known mosquito breeding sources and constantly updating that list according to information we get from residents, other agencies or our own technicians.
Most of the mosquito breeding sources in our Valley are man-made, with the biggest problem being backyard sources such as abandoned swimming pools and spas, leaking faucets, ornamental ponds, animal troughs and all kind of containers that will collect water for longer than 5 days. Other "problem zones" is street and curb drains, drainage channels and retention basins.
To obtain these objectives, the District utilizes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) measures. This includes the use of environmentally safe insecticides to control mosquito larvae, physical elimination of mosquito breeding sites, introduction of mosquito-eating predators (such as the mosquito-fish Gambusia affinis), and scientifically-based pest and disease surveillance systems.
With the Africanized Honey Bees (AHBs), or so-called "Killer Bees" migrating closer to the Antelope Valley, our newest assignment is to monitor our District borders for any activity and to prepare for their arrival. In preparation for the AHBs, we have suited up a "bee-truck" with special spraying equipment and chemicals and purchased suits for the bee-squad. We also keep all public agencies, health professionals and schools, as well as the general public informed about the status quo of the bees and how to prevent multiple stinging incidences of humans, pets and livestock.