MOSQUITO CONTROL TEAM

Transcription

1 CITY OF HAMPTON PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TRANSPORATION OPERATIONS - DRAINAGE MAINTENACE 419 NORTH ARMISTEAD AVENUE HAMPTON, VIRIGINIA MOSQUITO CONTROL TEAM

2 DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE MOSQUITO CONTROL TEAM. SEPTEMBER 2010 EDITION FOUR

3 Table of Contents Table of Contents Introduction and Mission Statement Introduction Mission Statement Mosquito Control Team Resources Organizational Chart for Drainage Maintenance Personnel Facilities Mosquito Control Hot Line Vehicles and Equipment Vehicles Field Equipment Surveillance and Laboratory Equipment Mosquito Control Team Responsibilities Mosquito Control Teams Arbovirus Testing Rodent Control Herbicide Application Emergency Response to Rain and Other Weather Events Detention/Retention Pond Inspections Illicit Discharge Testing Newmarket Creek Other Activities Mosquito Control Measures Source Reduction Larval Surveillance and Control Adult Surveillance and Control Aerial Spraying Biological Control Public Education Arbovirus Testing Activities Arbovirus Testing Activities Rodent Control Rodent Control Herbicide Application ~Page 1~

4 8.1 Herbicide Application Detention/Retention Pond Inspections Detention/Retention Pond Inspections Illicit Discharge Testing Illicit Discharge Testing Appendix A Mosquito List Appendix B - Glossary...24 Appendix C - Maps...26 Map 1. Mosquito Adulticiding Spray Routes Map 2. Sentinel Chicken Surveillance Sites...27 Map 3. Mosquito Trap Sites...28 Appendix D - Agreements...29 Agreement 1. City of Hampton and the Air Force Hold-Harmless Agreement...29 Appendix E Forms...30 Form 1. Stormwater BMP Inspection Form...31 Form 2 Illicit Discharge Field Test Form..32 Appendix F Division FAQs...32 Index..44 ~Page 2~

5 1 Introduction and Mission Statement 1.1 Introduction Hampton Roads harbors over thirty species of mosquitoes with over twenty species being implicated as competent carriers of human disease. The two most prevalent of these human diseases in this area are West Nile Virus diseases and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, the former being recently introduced within the Hampton community. Hampton s temperate environment and extensive salt marshes are conducive to the emergence of large broods of mosquitoes which continue to impact outdoor activities within the city. Newly introduced species of mosquitoes have acclimated to our urban setting and have created nuisance and health concerns in our neighborhoods. Please reference Appendix A 1.2 Mission Statement It is the mission of the City of Hampton Mosquito Control Team to provide the residents and visitors to Hampton the opportunity to utilize the outdoor facilities available by reducing the nuisance factor and health risks associated with an unchecked mosquito population. ~Page 3~

6 2 Mosquito Control Team Resources 2.1 Organizational Chart for Drainage Maintenance Drainage Maintenance Superintendent (1) Right-of-Way agent (1) Infrastructure System Maint Team (3) Street & Line Foreman (1) Line Construction Foreman (1) Infrastructure Construction Project Mgr (1WAE) EnvSerCoord Mosquito Cont (1 WAE) Ent Serv Team Mgr (1) Outfall Mech Ditching Infras Const Project Team Leader (1) Service Manager (Off Street Ditching) (1) Dredging Service (0) EO I (2) EO II (1) EO III (4) Laborer (1WAE) EO II (1) EO III (1) EO IV (1) EO V (1) Heavy Equip Tech (1) Master EO (1) EO II (1) EO V (1) EO V (1WAE) Biologist (1) Pest Cont Tech (5) EO V (1) EO IV (1) EO II (2) EO I (11) EO II (5) EO IV (2) 2.2 Personnel The Mosquito Control Team consists of seven members. All maintain current certification by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer services in the required categories of Public Health Pest Control (Cat.8) and/or Right-of-Way Pest Control (Cat.6). The Entomology Service Team Manager oversees and directs the activities of the Mosquito Control Team. The Biologist directs mosquito trapping, all laboratory activities related to virus testing, and assists with coordinating team activities. Five Pest Control Field Technicians conduct mosquito scouting and surveillance operations, perform pesticide applications, and respond to citizen service requests throughout the City. ~Page 4~

7 Many duties of the Mosquito Control team are technical, requiring skills in equipment calibration, maintenance and field repairs, chemical applications, and the ability to interact in a positive manner with the public on sensitive issues such as pesticide use. Stormwater positions: Service Team Manager Stormline Construction Repair Foreman Streetside Line Foreman Equipment Operator V Equipment Operator IV Equipment Operator III Equipment Operator II Equipment Operator I Master Equipment Operator Biologist GIS Specialist GIS Technician Sr Engineering Aide Infrastructure Construction Team Leader Total Full-Time Positions General Fund positions: DM Superintendent 1 Staff Technician III 1 Entomology Service Team Mgr 1 Heavy Equipment Technician 1 Equipment Operator V 1 Equipment Operator IV 3 Equipment Operator III 3 Equipment Operator II 5 Equipment Operator I 5 Chemical Applicator 5 Total Full-Time Positions Facilities The Mosquito Control Team maintains three facilities. Offices and laboratory are in a trailer behind the Public Works Operations building at 419 N. Armistead Ave. The chemical storage building is in the Public Works compound at the same address. The maintenance and equipment storage building is at 701 N. Armistead Ave. 2.4 Mosquito Control Hot Line The Mosquito Control Hot Line provides a pre-recorded announcement of the day s spraying operations and other pertinent information. ~Page 5~

8 3 Vehicles and Equipment 3.1 Vehicles DMV REGISTERED VEHICLES. ASSIGNED THRU DRAINAGE MAINT. VEHICLE YEAR MAKE MODEL FORD F150 PICKUP CHEV BLAZER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE FORD F150 PICKUP 118 PICKUP 1990 GMC C FORD F150 PICKUP EQUIP TYPE GMC 2500HD 4X4 PICKUP SIERRA 4WD 3.2 Field Equipment No. Type Use 1 All-Terrain Vehicle To access off-road areas 2 Jon Boats Small boat to travel waterways 3 TRUCK-MOUNTED SPRAYERS Ultra low volume mosquito adulticide sprayers w/radar and data collection hardware 1 HAND-HELD SPRAYER Ultra low volume mosquito adulticide sprayer 1 TRUCK-MOUNTED HERBICIDE SPRAY UNIT 4 BACKPACK HAND-PUMP SPRAYERS Herbicide spray Sprayers to dispense liquid larvicide 2 BACKPACK SPRAYERS Gasoline powered sprayers to dispense liquid insecticide, granular or pellet formulated larvicides 3 PUMP SPRAYERS 7 Gallon Insecticide 3.3 Surveillance and Laboratory Equipment No. Type Use 2 NIKON DUAL OPTICAL DISSECTING MICROSCOPES W/FIBER OPTIC ILLUMINATION Used for insect identification 1 NIKON COMPOUND MICROSCOPE Used for larval identification and ULV calibration 1 DRY ICE MACHINE Mosquito attractant used with surveillance traps 9 SURVEILLANCE TRAPS For adult mosquito surveillance and collection of samples for arbovirus testing 4 GRAVID TRAPS To attract and trap egg-laying mosquitoes 1 NEW JERSEY LIGHT TRAP To monitor salt marsh mosquito activity 5 VEC TEST VIRUS TESTING STATION Vortex and centrifuge machines, testing equipment and test strips To test mosquitoes for arbovirus presence ~Page 6~

9 4 Mosquito Control Team Responsibilities 4.1 Mosquito Control Teams Mosquito Control: Provides mosquito control services for residents and visitors to Hampton through reduction of mosquito breeding habitats, surveillance of mosquito larvae and adults, chemical treatment of breeding sites, application of chemical spray to reduce the population of adult mosquitoes, and the education of residents and visitors to Hampton regarding mosquito control methods available through outreach and response to service requests. 4.2 Arbovirus Testing Arbovirus Testing: Adult mosquitoes are collected, identified to species, processed, and tested for arbovirus (West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus) in the lab. Since the State lab in Norfolk has closed the Mosquito Control Team uses a rapid screening test as an aid to operational decisions regarding mosquito control efforts. Positive test results are forwarded through the local health department to the State lab in Richmond for confirmation. 4.3 Rodent Control Rodent Control: City ditches and right-of-ways are treated for Norway rats as needed. Muskrat control is not performed by the Mosquito Control team. Property owners who request this service are referred to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. 4.4 Herbicide Application Herbicide Application: Provides chemical control of weeds on ditch banks and bottoms to facilitate storm water drainage and to reduce rodent harborage and nesting sites. 4.5 Emergency Response to Rain and Other Weather Events Emergency Response to Rain and Other Weather Events: The Mosquito Control Team checks and services an assigned area in Hampton during and after heavy rains to insure adequate storm water drainage. Team members serve on snow detail and may be called out on other severe weather events. 4.6 Detention/Retention Pond Inspections Detention/Retention Pond Inspections: Conduct inspections annually of approximately one hundred private and City-owned storm water detention/retention ponds for structural and maintenance deficiencies. Reports are forwarded to Storm Water Engineer. 4.7 Illicit Discharge Testing Illicit Discharge Testing: Conduct inspections of storm water drainage sites and perform chemical tests for a variety of pollutants of water samples collected. Positive samples are sent to HRSD for verification and reports are forwarded to the Storm Water Engineer. ~Page 7~

10 4.8 Newmarket Creek Newmarket Creek: Conduct quarterly inspection of Newmarket Creek from Newport News city line to Bluebird Gap Farm and remove obstructions to flow. 4.9 Other Activities Other Activities: The Mosquito Control Team provides insect identification and pest control information as a courtesy to citizens who request assistance. The team assists- Public Works crews with stinging insect and other pest control when requested. The team serves in various capacities in local and state mosquito control organizations. ~Page 8~

11 5 Mosquito Control Measures Hampton s mosquito control team employs an integrated pest management system, using a variety of methods. 5.1 Source Reduction All mosquito species need water to complete their life cycle. [Figure 1- Mosquito Life Cycle] In the past century much effort was expended by various levels of government to drain marshes and lowlands to gain relief from mosquitoes. Hampton s mosquito control team undertakes various projects throughout the year to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats. Tires and other items which hold water are collected from City property, ditches, and roadsides. The team assists the Drainage Maintenance crews in checking and cleaning City ditches, creeks, ponds, and catch basins to reduce breeding sites in these areas. We offer yard inspections to identify mosquito breeding sites and to educate our citizens about this effective mosquito control measure. FIGURE 1 ~Page 9~

12 5.2 Larval Surveillance and Control Along with source reduction, larval control is considered the most effective mosquito control measure. Mosquitoes are easier to target in the larval state. Larvicides available are specific to mosquitoes and less likely to impact non-targeted species. Larval surveillance and control is performed year round. Right-of-ways and woodlands are accessible during the winter months due to less ground cover. Potential larval sites are located in these areas and long-term residual larvicides applied. Larval activity begins as early as February in Hampton with rains flooding low-lying woodland areas. Emerging spring mosquitoes are a major nuisance in nearby neighborhoods. Larviciding operations along the edge of the wooded areas reduce the impact of these mosquitoes. Warmer Spring and early Summer weather allow larvae to hatch which have over-wintered as eggs in salt marshes and ground depressions. Many of these mosquito species are active all summer as long as there is standing water so monitoring and retreating these sites is often necessary. Summer rains bring floodwater mosquitoes which lay their eggs on ditch and creek banks and low lying areas and hatch when these areas fill. Artificial container breeding mosquitoes also become active at this time. Sites are surveyed and treated as needed. Catch basins are monitored for larval activity. Larval surveillance and control operations in the areas indicated above continue until late October. [Figure 2 Larval Field Sample]. ~Page10~

13 FIGURE 2 Larval Samples Taken from the Field Jan 0 0 Feb 4 8 Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep 14 8 Oct 7 4 Nov 0 0 Dec Adult Surveillance and Control Hampton s mosquito control team uses a variety of traps and baits for surveillance and collection of adult mosquitoes for arbovirus testing. We do not trap as a control measure. For arbovirus testing and salt marsh surveillance, trap locations remain the same throughout the season. [See Appendix C - Map 3 Mosquito Trap Sites] We also use traps in our response to citizen requests for service. Trapping aids in our identification of pest species and determination of control measures to use. Each trap is set in the afternoon and retrieved the next morning, defining a trap night. Mosquitoes from individual traps are counted separately. [Figure 3 Mosquitoes/Trap Nights] ~Page11~

14 FIGURE Month #of Mosquitoes #of Trap Nights Mar 37 5 Apr 1, May 9, Jun 9, Jul 4, Aug 3, Sep 1, Oct 1, Nov Month #of Mosquitoes #of Trap Nights Apr May 9, Jun 6, Jul 4, Aug 3, Sep 2, Oct 3, Nov 0 0 TOTAL 30, TOTAL 32, Month #of Mosquitoes #of Trap Nights Mar 0 0 Apr 4, May 12, Jun 39, Jul 21, Aug 19, Sep 13, Oct 2, Nov 0 0 TOTAL 113, ~Page 12~

15 When trap counts and site surveillance indicate adult mosquito control measures are justified, a ULV truck spraying operation is conducted. Spraying operations are also conducted when our mosquito pools submitted to the State Health Department return a positive result for arbovirus. The spray route is selected and reviewed, the Mosquito Control Hot Line is updated, the 311 call center and Hampton Police are notified, and weather conditions are checked for wind and temperature. Operations are conducted between dusk and 11:00 pm. The area is treated by a truck-mounted sprayer dispensing an ultra low volume of mosquito adulticide as an aerosol mist along City streets. [See Appendix C Map 1 Mosquito Adulticiding Spray Routes] 5.4 Aerial Spraying Hampton s mosquito control team works with Langley Air Force Base s entomology team and other regional mosquito control agencies by providing surveillance data and a share of pesticide for periodic mosquito spray flights over areas of the Lower Peninsula by the Air Force Spray Team, based in Youngstown, Ohio. Aerial spray is requested by the City Manager when surveillance indicates a large increase in salt marsh mosquito activity. An in-briefing is conducted, attended by Hampton s mosquito control team management, before the spray flight to determine the spray route direction and schedule based on wind direction, areas to be covered, and no-spray areas. The spray flight is conducted during the late afternoon/early evening hours and is concluded by dusk. Hampton s Mosquito Control team monitors the spray flight over Hampton by setting slides and cards to gauge accuracy of the spray and by setting bio-assay cages with live mosquitoes to insure efficacy of the pesticide. Results are provided to the aerial spray team during and at the conclusion of the mission. A Hold-Harmless Agreement between the City of Hampton and the Air Force is signed by the Hampton city manager prior to each mosquito season. [See Appendix D Agreement 1J] Area beekeepers are notified by Hampton Mosquito Control and local newspaper announcements prior to each spray mission so they can protect their bees from the spray. 5.5 Biological Control There are a number of natural predators of mosquito larvae in Hampton. Many have been promoted as solutions to mosquito infestations but they have not been seen to be of significant help or economically feasible in mosquito control efforts. Hampton s mosquito control maintains a permit from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and provides Mosquito Fish for residential ornamental ponds upon request ~Page 13~

16 5.6 Public Education ENTOMOLOGY. MOSQUITO CONTROL TEAM As a major part of our mosquito control efforts we provide information and advice to the public regarding mosquito control around the home. Our team members speak to civic and school groups, summer camps, and participate in local fairs and outdoor functions. To address the problems caused by one of Hampton s major mosquito pests, the Asian Tiger Mosquito, public education is the primary method of control. This mosquito utilizes artificial containers such as tires, lawn ornaments, rain gutters, tarps, etc. around the home as larval habitats. We do not larvicide on private property so we can not treat these sites. Truck spraying is not effective against the Asian Tiger Mosquito. Much of our outreach efforts are concerned with educating residents about reducing the habitat of these mosquitoes in their own yards. [Figure 4 Public Education Door Hanger Asian Tiger Mosquito] ~Page 14~

17 TEAM ENTOMOLOGY. MOSQUITO CONTROL FIGURE 4 ~Page 15~

18 6 Arbovirus Testing Activities 6.1 Arbovirus Testing Activities Two mosquito-borne disease viruses are of public health concern in the Hampton Roads area. The Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus has been recognized as a public health concern in the Tidewater Virginia area for decades, affecting both horses and humans. The West Nile Virus was introduced into the United States within the past ten years and has spread throughout the lower 48 states, affecting birds, domestic animals, horses, and humans. These viruses are maintained and amplified in the wild bird population by bird-feeding mosquitoes. Other species of mosquitoes, known as bridge vectors feed on birds and other animals, including humans. Arbovirus testing lets us know when the virus is active and gives us the opportunity to reduce the number of mosquitoes which could impact our community. Hampton s Mosquito Control Team is a member of the Tidewater Regional Arbovirus Surveillance Team. We collect, process, and test mosquitoes for arbovirus. Until this year the Virginia Health Department in Norfolk tested the samples and returned results to us for action. Since the Norfolk lab closed we are field testing mosquito pools. [Figure 5 Pools Submitted for Virus Testing] FIGURE Mosquito Pools EEE Positive WNV Positive Chicken Pools ** 81 EEE Positive WNV Positive *NOTE: Sentinel Chicken Program not in place in 2003 ** Trial test of blood spots and serum ~Page 16~

19 Communication is maintained with the Hampton Health Department regarding Hampton s arbovirus testing and they will make any public notifications concerning arbovirus activity in Hampton. Mosquitoes are collected alive from CDC Light Traps baited with carbon dioxide (dry ice) or from gravid traps, which are baited with a grass or hay infusion in water and designed to collect females seeking an egg-depositing site. [See Appendix C Map 3 Mosquito Traps] Captured mosquitoes are taken to our lab and immobilized, speciated, and counted. Potential virus carrying species are pooled in groups of 10 to 50 individuals. Pools are labeled recorded, and tested in-house for the presence of arboviruses. Positive results are sent to the State lab in Richmond for confirmation. We have temoparily halted our sentinel chicken surveillance program due to resource constraints. Five sentinel chicken stations were kept in Hampton because of the chicken s ability to quickly produce antibodies to the arbovirus which can be detected by laboratory tests. [See Appendix C Map 2 Sentinel Chicken Surveillance Sites] Blood was drawn bi-weekly, either from the wing vein or comb. Samples were labeled, recorded and taken the same day to the State Health Department lab in Norfolk. Results were received within three working days. ~Page 17~

20 7 Rodent Control 7.1 Rodent Control Hampton s mosquito control team receives numerous service requests from residents concerned with rodents on their property. We respond to these requests by surveying the property and speaking with the resident. If there is evidence of Norway rat activity we check adjacent City facilities, drainage ditches, catch basins, and right-of-ways. If we find rat activity on City Property we place rat bait blocks in secure areas (inside burrows or in bait stations). We monitor the area and retreat as necessary until the problem is resolved. If the problem does not involve City property we provide literature and advice on rat control methods that the resident can use to eliminate the problem. If muskrat activity is indicated we provide the resident with contact information for Virginia Game and Inland Fisheries office, which can provide a trapping permit to property owners. In cases of major muskrat problems on City ditch banks we contract with the USDA Fish and Wildlife Service for muskrat trapping. ~Page 18~

21 8 Herbicide Application 8.1 Herbicide Application The mosquito control team assists Drainage Maintenance ditching crews in keeping ditch bottoms unobstructed. After ditches are cut our herbicide unit sprays a systemic herbicide along ditch bottoms to delay re-growth. When necessary we also use a broadleaf and woody plant herbicide on ditch banks to eliminate briars, vines, and other heavy growth. In addition to aiding storm water drainage, mosquito larval habitats and rodent harborage areas are reduced. ~Page 19~

22 9 Detention/Retention Pond Inspections 9.1 Detention/Retention Pond Inspections The EPA has mandated that these storm water holding facilities be inspected annually for proper maintenance and structural integrity. Hampton s mosquito control team performs these inspections. Approximately 100 private and 5 City owned sites are visited and checked. A report is completed for each site and is forwarded to the City storm water engineer. BMPs are added to the inspection list from approved construction plans with maintenance agreements by the property owner. [See Appendix E Form 1 Detention/Retention Pond inspection Form] DETENTION POND RETENTION POND ~Page 20~

23 10 Illicit Discharge Testing 10.1 Illicit Discharge Testing Through the Clean Water Act, the EPA has also mandated that testing for illicit discharge into storm water drainage be conducted. Mosquito Control team members meet annually with the storm water engineer and Drainage Maintenance Superintendent to determine thirty locations to test, and the Mosquito Control team performs these chemical tests using guidelines furnished by HRSD. Positive test results are sent to HRSD lab for verification. All reports are forwarded to Hampton s storm water engineer. [See Appendix E Form 2 Illicit Discharge Field Test Form] ~Page 21~

24 Appendix A Mosquito List Mosquito List of Public Health Concern for the City of Hampton Prominent Spring Mosquitoes Ochlerotatus canadensis: Snow Melt Mosquito Woodland pool larval habitat. Emerges in large numbers creating a public nuisance, usually one of the first mosquito species seen in the spring. Adults live a long time until late summer. In favorable conditions, a second brood may hatch in mid/late fall. Persistent bitters of humans. Overwinter as eggs. Possible vector of WNV/EEE Culex restuans: Freshwater ditches, woodland pools, and artificial container larval habitats. Some authorities claim they are troublesome human bitters others claim non-human bitters. Over-winter as adults. Possible vector of WNV Prominent Summer Mosquitoes Psorophora columbiae: Rice Field Mosquito Field and floodwater larval habitat. Emerge quickly in as little as 4 days and bite readily in the day and night. Attack man and medium to large size mammals. Over-winter as eggs. Possible vector of EEE Psorophora ferox: White-footed Mosquito Larval habitat in temporary rain filled pools in or near thickets. Develop rapidly and females are persistent, painful biters. Larvae can be found March to November. Adults are short-lived, best treated at the larval stages. Over-winter as eggs. Aedes albopictus: Asian Tiger Mosquito Larval habitat in man-made containers. Number one public nuisance, implicated as a vector of WNV/EEE and dog heartworm, best treated in larval stages by getting rid of small areas of pooled water, i.e. flower pots, gutters, tarps, birdbaths (clean weekly), kids plastic outside play toys, etc. Adults can be found into the fall (but less numerous) and fly less than 1/2 mile from larval habitat. Culex pipens: Northern House Mosquito Foul water larval habitat such as catch basins, rain barrels, faulty cesspools, and ditches. Bird biter early, switches to mammals including humans, infests houses and bite at night. Implicated as a vector of WNV/EEE. Over-winter as adults. Multiple Season Mosquitoes Aedes vexans: Larval habitat in temporary rain filled pool and floodwater. Bites humans during the day in shaded areas, very persistent biter after dark. Adults emerge May to October. Implicated as a vector of WNV/EEE. Over-winter as eggs. Culex salinarius: Larval habitat in grassy pools of fresh and brackish water, lake margins, marshes, ponds, and ditches. Adults begin emerging in the spring and continue into early fall. Females fly at night and will bite humans. Implicated as a vector of WNV/EEE. ULV truck spraying helps to reduce the population. Over-winter as adults. ~Page 22~

25 Salt Marsh Mosquitoes Anopheles bradleyi: Larval habitats found in salt and brackish marshes. Night flying mosquitoes and will bite humans. A major nuisance of the Fox Hill and Harris Creek neighborhoods. ULV truck spraying helps to reduce the population. Over-winter as adults. Possible vector of EEE. Ochlerotatus taeniorhynchus: Black Salt Marsh Mosquito Larval habitats in salt marshes, inland brackish water swamps and occasionally in near-by fresh water pools. Adults more abundant during summer and early fall following high tides or combination of high tides and heavy rain. Persistent biters of humans attacking day or night. Large broods impact neighborhoods surrounding the salt marshes. Aerial spraying by the Air Force helps to reduce their numbers. Possible vector of WNV/EEE. Ochlerotatus sollicitans: Golden Salt Marsh Mosquito Larval habitats mostly in salt marshes and sometimes in brackish water swamps. Large, fierce day-biting mosquito found April to October. High tides and/or heavy rains can produce large broods impacting neighborhoods surrounding the salt marshes. Aerial spraying by the Air Force helps to reduce their numbers. Possible vector of EEE. Fresh Water Mosquitoes Anopheles crucians: Larval habitat found in lakes, ponds, swamps, semi-permanent and permanent pools. Adults fly after dark and will bite humans. ULV truck spraying helps to reduce the population. Over-winter as larvae. Possible vector of WNV/EEE Culiseta melanura: Bird Feeding Mosquito Larval habitats found in water beneath stumps and roots of trees in wooded swamps. In large numbers, this mosquito can amplify WNV/EEE in the local bird population making it easier for bridge vector mosquitoes to transmit EEE/WNV to mammals including humans. Over-winter as larvae if the habitat is available. ~Page 23~

26 Appendix B - Glossary Glossary of Mosquitoes, Biology and Control Terms Contained in this Report ADULTICIDING- Controlling populations of adult mosquitoes using specialized pesticides applied by truck mounted equipment ANTIBODIES- Specific chemicals produced within the body system of sentinel chickens in response to infection caused by an arbovirus. These chemicals are isolated in blood samples taken for testing and their presence indicates a positive result for arbovirus infection. ARBOVIRUS- A virus transmitted by mosquitoes or other arthropods and usually refers to a virus that causes disease in humans or domestic animals CDC TRAP- A mosquito trap designed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that uses CO2 (dry ice) and a small light for attractants. These traps are best suited for collecting EEE primary mosquito vectors, bridge vectors, and nuisance mosquitoes seeking a blood meal EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS (EEE) - One of the arboviral diseases we monitor in Hampton GRAVID TRAP- A mosquito trap that uses a water-based infusion to attract female mosquitoes seeking an egg-laying site- This trap is best for trapping WNV mosquito vectors and container breeding mosquitoes GROUND ULTRA LOW VOLUME (ULV)- Treatment for adult mosquitoes on the wing that consists of spraying a pesticide at very high pressure and low rate from a truck-mounted machine HOST- The animal (often a bird) that may carry an arboviral disease and act as a reservoir for that disease and the disease has little or no effect on the host INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) - The practice of using several different types of pesticides and methods to control mosquito populations insuring the least amount of impact to the environment LARVICIDING- A chemical method used to control the mosquito in its most vulnerable stage, when confined and localized, to prevent the insects from becoming adults. Many of the products are formulated with biological materials such as bacteria and insect growth regulators specific to mosquitoes MOSQUITO POOL- A group of 10 to 50 mosquito specimens of a single mosquito species collected from one location during one trap night. The pools are sent to the Norfolk state lab for arbovirus testing SENTINEL FLOCK- Groups of domestic birds (usually chickens) placed at a specific location throughout the arboviral season and used to monitor arboviral diseases SPECIATION- The process of sorting the mosquitoes caught in various traps according to species ~Page 24~

27 VECTORS- Species of mosquitoes that play a role in the amplification and transmission of arboviral diseases PRIMARY VECTOR- The mosquito species that is responsible for passing an arboviral disease from host to host (usually birds) and increasing that disease s prevalence and activity. In Hampton, the primary vector of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is Culiseta melanura and the probable primary vector of West Nile Virus (WNV) is Culex pipiens BRIDGE VECTOR- A mosquito species (usually different from the primary vector) that may bite an infected host and then transmit an arboviral disease to a horse or human WEST NILE VIRUS (WNV) - One of the arboviral diseases we monitor in Hampton ~Page 25~

28 Appendix C - Maps Map 1. Mosquito Adulticiding Spray Routes ~Page 26~

29 Map 2. Sentinel Chicken Surveillance Sites ~Page 27~

30 Map 3. Mosquito Trap Sites ~Page 28~

31 Appendix D - Agreements Agreement 1 City of Hampton and the Air Force Hold-Harmless Agreement ~Page 29~

32 Appendix E - Forms Form 1. Detention/Retention Pond Inspection Form ~Page 30~

33 Form 2. Illicit Discharge Field Test Form ~Page 31~

34 Appendix F Division FAQs Drainage Maintenance + Frequently Asked Questions What do I have to do to get my ditch piped in? The City will install ditch piping only when requested and paid for by a resident. The customer purchases the pipe and the City will install it. Not all ditches can be piped in because of grade and existing utility conflicts. The ditch piping program is for only residential street side ditches. No off street ditches is a part of this program. For information on ditch piping at your residence, contact the 311 Customer Call Center between 7am and 11pm, daily. Is there a schedule for ditch cleaning? Drainage Maintenance tries to clean the backyard ditches that street runoff water flows through twice a year (not all backyard ditches). Drainage street side ditches in neighborhoods are cleaned once a year, if needed. For information on the last cleaning(s), contact the 311 Customer Call Center between 7am and 11pm, daily. Name, address and telephone number must be provided. The information will need to be researched. Are there any future plans for drainage work in my area? Drainage Maintenance routinely cleans all neighborhood ditches (that street water runs through) twice per year. For more specific information about the maintenance schedule or larger scale efforts, contact the 311 Customer Call Center. Please provide name, address, telephone number and particular interests. You will be contacted by the Drainage Department. What can I do about my neighbor dumping things in the ditch? To report dumping in drainage ditches, contact the 311 Customer Call Center between 7am and 11pm, daily. Drainage Maintenance will clean the ditch if it is not a private ditch and speak to the resident responsible for the dumping and notify Codes Compliance if the property owner refuses to allow the city access. The caller's personal information will not be revealed. Why is my street flooding? In heavy rains, streets will flood. Our crews do everything possible to clear up problems as quickly as possible. To have the crew to check the location concern, contact the 311 Customer Call Center. An advocate will double-check to make sure our crews are already aware of the problem and get to it as soon as possible. Can I dump water from my pool in the drainage ditch (street)? As long as the water contains no odd chemicals from cleaning, and won't flood the system it is okay. If you are unsure of the pool water, contact the 311 Call Center. When calling from within the Hampton city limits, dial When calling from outside of Hampton or from a cell phone, you must dial (757) Specific questions about bugs, spiders, bees, insects, and mosquitoes. For information on bugs, spiders, bees, insects, and mosquitoes, contact the 311 Call Center between 7am and 11pm, daily. When calling from within the Hampton city limits, dial When calling from outside of Hampton or from a cell phone, you must dial (757) I want to report a heavily littered area or littering going on (somewhere). Who can I call? ~Page 32~

35 If the area is private property, it is the responsibility of the property owner to clean up excessive litter, which is a codes violation. You can contact 311 (dial 311 in Hampton or (757) outside of Hampton or on a cellular phone) to report litter on private property. If the area is public property, the city will take care of the problem. The Drainage Division of Public Works will take care of excessive litter in drainage ditches (one or two pieces of litter would not be considered excessive). The Parks Department will take care of large amounts of litter at schools, beaches, outside city buildings or parks. You can contact 311 (dial 311 in Hampton or (757) outside of Hampton or on a cellular phone) to report litter on public property. You can also report public areas such as highways to the Clean City Commission's Litter Line at (757) Litter is a community problem and to promote good stewardship, Hampton Public Works started Hampton Watershed Restoration Project (with other partners) and an Adopt A Stream program to tackle shorelines. Volunteers have removed several hundred tons in the last decade. When private property is littered and volunteers are located to help, there's an expectation that the owner will participate and support the event. If the area is deemed hazardous or unsafe, volunteers will not be recruited. Please make sure you have an address of the property and the type of material to be cleaned up. Is there someone who can retrieve an animal from street drains/sewer lines? The city's drainage department will come out and check the ditch and evaluate what needs to be done. Many times animals, such as cats, will come out on their own. Why is it important to control the mosquito population in the City? There are two main reasons we want to control the mosquito population. First to control the spread of mosquito transmitted diseases, and secondly so that we can participate in and enjoy outdoor activities during the Spring and Summer months. Why doesn't the City do more to control mosquitoes? The City works to keep the mosquito population in check and at a tolerable level. It would be cost prohibitive, would require massive manpower, and significant funding increases to totally control the mosquito population. Where are the major breeding areas for mosquitoes? Mosquitoes may be found breeding in salt marshes and low-lying areas that hold water after a rainfall. Some mosquitoes, such as the Asian Tiger mosquito, prefer to breed in artificial containers such as clogged rain gutters, poorly maintained bird baths and wading pools, buckets, tires, flower pots, and any other container that can collect and hold rain water. Mosquitoes can develop from an egg to an adult in as little as 5 to 7 days. What type of mosquito is the major problem in Hampton? The Asian Tiger mosquito. They rest in tall grass and shrubs, bite day or night, and lay eggs in containers that catch and hold water. They are best controlled by eliminating egg-laying sites in your own yard. Spray flights are not effective in controlling Asian Tigers. What can I do to control the mosquito population in my yard? You can eliminate areas of standing water such as clogged gutters on your house or shed, turn empty flower pots over so that they won't collect water, do not let water stand on tarps or plastic ~Page 33~

36 covers, change the water in bird baths each week, empty wading pools, throw away empty potted plant trays, and correctly dispose of used tires. All of these measures will help control the mosquito population. Where can I get more information on mosquito control? Public education is key to the success of any mosquito control program. You can visit a web site at for more information and mosquito control tips. Contact the 311 Customer Call Center by dialing 311 in Hampton or outside of Hampton or on a cellular phone for more information or if you are having a problem with mosquitoes in your yard. What types of diseases can be transmitted by mosquitoes? Eastern Equine Encephalitis, West Nile Virus, Saint Louis Encephalitis, and LaCrosse Encephalitis are mosquito transmitted diseases that may occur in this area. How real is the threat of disease from mosquitoes? With the mobile nature of our world the threat is very real. Mosquitoes can be transported around the globe within days. In Hampton we have the vectors and diseases at a low level as they have not yet become amplified. Environmental factors such as humidity, rainfall, temperature, and season can cause an infestation and increase the chances of a disease spreading. West Nile Virus and Equine Encephalitis are both diseases related to mosquito bites. Can my dog get any disease by being bitten by mosquitoes? Yes they certainly can. The most common disease is dog heart worm. Heart worm prevention is easy, but treatment of the disease can be very expensive. Untreated heart worms can lead to the death of the dog. Dogs and cats are also susceptible to West Nile Virus. Do not treat your dog or cat with repellants such as OFF or Cutter, these products can be dangerous if ingested. Consult your veterinarian for more information on products that can prevent these diseases. What types of pests or flying insects are common in Hampton? Numerous types of spiders, including the Black Widow, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, snakes, flies, fleas, and ticks are all common in the City. What should I do if I am bitten by a Black Widow spider? You need to contact a physician or hospital immediately. Small children are especially vulnerable to the bite and need to be treated right away. While the bite is not considered life threatening, hospitalization may be necessary. How will I know if I have been bitten by a Black Widow spider? The bite may not be felt. It is followed by burning, local swelling, and redness. Two puncture points may be visible. The pain intensifies after 1-3 hours and may last up to 48 hours. The spider venom is neurotoxic and the pain usually progresses from the site of the bite up or down the arm or leg, finally localizing in the abdomen or back. The abdominal muscles may become rigid and board-like with severe cramps. Other symptoms may include nausea, profuse sweating, tremors, labored breathing and speech, and vomiting. The severity of the symptoms depends on the age and sensitivity of the victim, with small children most severely affected. How can I control spiders in my house, garage, or shed? ~Page 34~

37 Keep areas clean and free of debris. Eliminate their living sites by removing trash, old boxes, piles of lumber, and rubble from under or around houses or out-buildings. There are a variety of insecticides available for spider control. Please remember to carefully read and follow all label directions. How can I help make sure that snakes will not want to live in my yard? Simply eliminate the areas that they would want to live in. Keep vegetation cut low, do not keep piles of wood or brush on your property, and remove debris and trash or other items where they can hide. How can I get rid of insects and pests like hornets, yellow jackets, wasps, or other stinging insects? There are several products labeled and available for controlling insects and pests. Please carefully read and follow all label directions for their use. Always apply the product at night when the insect is "home". NEVER use gasoline, kerosene, oil, or any other flammable liquids to control pests due to the danger to you and the potential of groundwater contamination. What can I do to get rid of or control ticks in my yard? Usually ticks are a problem because a pet dog has carried them into the yard or house. Female ticks on the animal feed, drop-off, and lay eggs. The eggs hatch and thousands of larval ticks seek a meal, usually from the dog. Controlling ticks around the house means keeping the animal free of ticks with the use of a suitable dip, dust, spray, shampoo, and a tick collar. Dogs can be de-ticked by hand, but remember to protect your fingers or use tweezers. You should also keep your law mowed and keep brush away from walkways. What can I do to protect myself from tick bites? Wear light colored clothing so ticks can be seen easier, wear long sleeved shirts and long pants in an area where ticks may be, and tuck pants into socks and shirttails into pants to force the tick to walk on the outside of clothing where it can be easily seen, and removed. You can also use repellents to help keep ticks away and you should check frequently for ticks on the body and clothing, especially on children. What type of diseases can be transmitted from ticks to humans? The most common tick-borne diseases in this area are Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) and Lyme Disease. RMSF is most often transmitted by the bite of the American dog tick and can be fatal if left untreated. Lyme Disease is transmitted through the bite of the deer tick. Untreated, Lyme Disease can cause permanent damage to joints and heart muscle. Both RMSF and Lyme Disease can be controlled with antibiotics. What are muskrats and why are they a problem in Hampton? Muskrats are fur-bearing animals, usually inches in length, and can weigh between one and four pounds. They have a dark tan to reddish-brown to dark brown to black fur color on their sides and back. The belly is generally light gray to silver to tan. They live in any place where food and water are available year-round and they are primarily vegetarians. Muskrats cause damage to ditch banks with their burrowing and making of their den. How can I prevent or minimize muskrat damage to my property? Muskrats can cause damage to property when they burrow into the ditch banks as they make their den and by eating vegetation such as lawn grass, or garden and ornamental plants. A short (2-3 foot) chicken wire fence that is partially buried in the ground can be effective in keeping ~Page 35~

38 muskrats out of your yard or garden. The City of Hampton does not trap muskrats. You can contact a private exterminator for more information or if you need help in dealing with the problem. What is the telephone number for the Virginia Department of Fish and Wildlife? The telephone number is What kinds of rats are normally found in Hampton? The most common type is the Norway rat. They are usually 7-10 inches long, not including their tail, have blunt noses, small ears and eyes, and a hairless tail that is shorter than their body. Where do these rats live? They build their nests by digging holes around foundations of buildings, in stream banks, and under piles of wood and trash. They can fit through an opening as small as one-half inch and can chew through many types of building materials. If I don't see any rats in my neighborhood does that mean there aren't any? Not necessarily. Rats are most active at night and will only travel about 100 feet from their nest to find food and water. They like to live close to their food source and may become accustomed to eating one type of food over any other. They especially like fresh food to eat, but will thrive on pet waste. How can I tell if there have been rats in my yard? When a rat leaves its nest it travels the same path each time called a runway. Outdoors, the runway may appear as a trail in the grass or dirt. Indoors, the runway may show "rub marks" where oil and dirt from the fur has been left on walls or floors. Also, noises, droppings, tracks, gnaw marks, pieces of fur, and burrows are signs of rat activity. What kinds of diseases can be carried by rats? Rats commonly live near people and are not afraid of the odor of humans. They can transmit many diseases to people including leptospirosis, salmonella, trichinosis, and rat-bite fever. The fleas on rats can carry murine typhus or plague. Rats are not known to transmit rabies. How can I get rid of or control rats in my yard? This four step program to eliminate rodents can be effective in getting rid of rats. First, prevent rats from entering your home by repairing openings with a material such as sheet metal or hardware cloth. Next, remove any sources of food for rats by storing food, especially pet food, in tightly sealed containers; place all garbage in an undamaged container with a lid; remove any uneaten pet food after feeding your animals; and remove all pet droppings from your yard everyday. Third, remove all hiding places for rats such as piles of trash and garbage; objects stored outside, such as fire wood, should be inches off the ground to prevent burrowing; and cut grass and brush to remove cover for rats and discourage their activity. Finally, eliminate rats with traps placed in the runway for best results. Peanut butter, hot dogs, or bacon makes a good rat bait. When using a rat poison it must be placed where it cannot be reached by children, pets, or any animals other than rats or mice. Always carefully read and follow all label directions on any rat bait or poison purchased. Does the City of Hampton bait for rats? Yes, we bait for rats on public property, in areas like storm drains and ditches, in some park ~Page 36~

39 locations, and in City right of ways where it has been determined that a problem exists. The City does not do any baiting on private property nor do we supply or sell rodent bait to citizens. Does the City spray larvicides for mosquitoes? Yes, there is an ongoing program to kill immature mosquitoes before they become adults and begin breeding. If you are having a problem with lots of mosquitoes, call the 311 Call Center between 7am and 11pm, daily. Someone will come out to evaluate the number and type of mosquitoes in an area and whether spraying would be effective or is necessary at that time. To reach the Call Center: When calling from within the Hampton city limits, dial When calling from outside of Hampton or from a cell phone, you must dial When does the larvicide program take place? The applications begin in early Spring when larvae first appear and continue throughout the Summer and early Fall. The City bases their decision on when and where to spray, according to the number of complaints from residents, the weather and surveys of mosquito counts in areas of the City. If you are having problems with a large number of mosquitoes in your area, contact the 311 Customer Call Center. When calling from within the Hampton city limits, dial When calling from outside of Hampton or from a cell phone, you must dial Why does the City want to control the immature mosquitoes? It is much more cost effective to control immature mosquitoes (larvae) than to try and control the adults since the larvae must remain in water during growth and development. A breeding site may contain many thousands of mosquito larvae in a relatively small area. It is cheaper to apply a larvicide to a small area of water to control the mosquito larvae than to spray a large part of the City to control adult mosquitoes that can fly. What type of larvicide is used in the program? A variety of products are used today to control mosquito larvae. They include surface oils, insect growth regulators, naturally occurring bacteria, fish, nematodes (small worms that are parasites of larvae), and various other chemical agents. The choice of which larvicide to use will depend on a number of factors including the type and size of the habitat in which the larvae are found, the species of mosquito, availability of mosquito control personnel, and the type of application equipment on hand. Are the spray flights the same as the larvicide program? No. Aerial spray flights are only effective in controlling adult mosquitoes that are flying at the time of the application. Do the spray flights kill all of the adult mosquitoes? Spray flights kill only the mosquitoes that are actively flying at the time of the application. Mosquitoes resting in vegetation, in the water, inside buildings, or other structures will not be affected by the spray. The spray application has no long lasting (residual) effect. Is the spray used in the spray flight program safe for people and pets? All of the products used in the mosquito control program are registered for such use by the ~Page 37~