Controlling Mosquitoes
Zap Away those Pesky Pests!
The City of College Park cooperates with the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) to identify and control mosquito populations. Larviciding treatments are made by MDA personnel to known areas of standing water to control mosquito larva by preventing development into adult mosquitos. Spraying to control adult mosquitoes has begun and will run through September. Wednesday is the designated night when spraying for adult mosquitoes may occur in College Park. MDA doesn’t spray individual properties; they treat neighborhoods that meet established thresholds.
MDA has initiated a new mosquito complaint procedure; click here to provide your information.
Request for Exemption from Adult Mosquito Control Services:
Any resident who wishes to have the frontage of their property excluded from adult mosquito control pesticide applications, by truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) sprayers must fill out this form annually. Click here for the application.
For permanent areas of standing water (ponds, rain barrels, etc.), mosquito "torpedos" can be used to target and control mosquito larvae. You can stop by the City's Department Public Works to obtain a mosquito torpedo.
Tips to remove mosquito breeding sites:
- Clean rain gutters to allow water to flow freely.
- Turn over or store wading pools, pots and plastic containers.
- Dispose of all empty beverage containers, plastic wrappers, discarded toys, etc.
- Check for trapped water in plastic or canvas tarps. Arrange the tarp so water drains away.
- Replace water in bird baths at least twice a week.
- Remove pet food and water dishes that are not being used.
- Flush water in the bottom of plant holders twice a week.
- Repair exterior water faucets that drip.
- Turn wheelbarrows upside down when stored outside.
- Check ornamental ponds, tree holes, and low areas that hold water for mosquito larvae. Mosquito Torpedos are available at Public Works to treat these areas.
- If ditches do not flow and contain stagnant water for one week or longer, they can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to a Mosquito Control Office. Do not attempt to clear these ditches because they may be protected by wetlands.
Contact the Mosquito Control Section of the Maryland Department of Agriculture for additional assistance and advice. For more information click here to visit their website or call them at 410-841-5870.