Dept. of Ecology Likely to Change Mosquito Control Permit

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By Chelsea Kopta

Summary

You asked for it, you got it! Hundreds of you spoke out about mosquito spraying this summer after the Department of Ecology planned to stop spraying for nuisance mosquitos. Now, Ecology says "we've heard you loud and clear!"

Story Published: Mar 19, 2010 at 8:34 PM PST

WEST RICHLAND, Wash. -- You asked for it, and you got it. Hundreds of you spoke out about mosquito spraying this summer after the Department of Ecology planned to stop spraying for nuisance mosquitos. Now, Ecology says "we've heard you loud and clear!"

The state Department of Ecology was drafting a permit that would have limited spraying to only larvae and infected mosquitos like those with West Nile. But more than 500 people contacted the Department of Ecology to change that. Because of those comments, reps say they expect to make significant changes to the permit to make sure all mosquitos are sprayed. Plus, Ecology plans to hold workshops to explain the new permit which would go into effect in June.

Until then, reps say your home will get sprayed as long as it's not near water. That's to protect water quality. Call the Benton County Mosquito Control District to see if this includes your home.