The outdoors in Saskatchewan can be a little difficult to enjoy with mosquitoes and ticks wanting to snack on us. This is why the Town of Kindersley will be looking to make outdoor spaces more enjoyable for residents this summer.

Town administration have announced staff will begin mosquito control efforts this evening by applying malathion in green spaces. These areas include all Kindersley parks, such as the dog park, Baker Park and spray pad, ball diamonds and soccer fields, and Motherwell Reservoir walking trail.

The decision to apply malathion was initiated by town council in order to combat the expected high levels of mosquitoes throughout the community.

Moreover, town staff will continue treating standing water throughout Kindersley and surrounding perimeter with Vectobac, which controls and eradicates mosquitoes at the larvae stage. Employees have used this practice since 2010.

What is malathion?

Malathion is an outdoor insecticide which can be applied topically and has shown to be effective in eradicating mosquitoes and ticks. The insecticide has been registered in Canada since 1953 and is the most common product in the country for controlling adult mosquitoes by ultra low volume (ULV) application.

Spraying of the agent occurs during the evening and nighttime hours to decrease the health risks to human health. In addition, the insecticide is used as a short-term effective measure.

Municipal governments and health authorities are to notify residents living near spray areas at least 48 hours before the project begins. The Town of Kindersley currently employs three individuals who are licensed as Mosquito and Biting Fly Pesticide Applicators.

Is malathion safe for people and pets?

According to a number of tests done by regulatory agencies in both Canada and the United States, exposure from ULV application for mosquito control programs do not reach a level of concern for health effects in humans. But, there are a few things to remember.

It is not recommended for people to be outdoors near the spray areas and are asked to stay indoors to further reduce the chances of exposure. Furthermore, the assessment for malathion suggests a higher level of protection for pregnant women and children while spraying occurs.

Residents near the spray areas may want to consider closing their windows during the evening/early morning hours and remain indoors while staff administer the agent. Since the application of the malathion will be done via a quad-mounted sprayer and not aerially, the concern of airborne contact with the chemical is greatly reduced.

As for pets, they too are at a low risk of toxicity from malathion as long as they are not outdoors during the application process. Mammals like humans, dogs, and cats are not affected by the product when they are not in direct contact during spraying.

Although, malathion is highly toxic to fish/other aquatic organisms and other insects. It is also recommended that residents cover gardens containing fruits and vegetables and wash the produce before cooking or eating them.

 

 

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