By Leah Murray

VIDEO: Battling the bugs; the city is conducting mosquito control measures

May 7, 2017 | 12:00 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The City of Medicine Hat is conducting some mosquito control measures already this year.

The blood sucking insects thrive in warm moist conditions.

Compared to the past few years many parts of southern Alberta have seen more moisture and precipitation this winter and spring.

The abundance of water has filled ditches, dugouts and low-lying areas which are the breeding grounds for the insects.

The city is seeing an increased number of mosquito larva in the areas they test for them.

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There are around 60 locations throughout Medicine Hat where mosquito numbers are monitored.

If levels are high the city will treat the ponds and other shallow water sites with an environmentally compatible bacterial larvicide.

Hatters are also being asked to do their part by mitigating standing water on their properties to prevent the bugs from making your back yard their home.

To protect yourself from mosquito it’s recommended you wear light coloured clothing, long sleeves and use insect repellent.

Mosquitoes are most active around dusk and it is recommended to stay indoors during this time.

Dave Genio with the city’s parks and recreation department speaks to CHAT News Today about the city’s mosquito monitoring efforts. Watch below: