With the rainfall the North Bay experienced this past month we thought it was the perfect time to start talking about rainwater harvesting.

Whether you have been collecting rainwater for years or have just started, we have some tips to help keep your water conservation systems mosquito-free.

Rain Barrels

There are a number of prefabricated rain barrels that can be purchased at home and garden stores that come mosquito-proofed. These barrels still need to be checked on a regular basis to make sure that they are properly screened and that their structural integrity has not been compromised.

• Use a rain barrel with a mosquito-proof screen (fine mesh–1/16th of an inch) under the lid and covering the overflow hole.
• Keep your rain barrel lid and all connectors in the system sealed.
• Place your barrel on a surface that will soak up or promptly drain water that has overflowed.
• Keep your barrel free of organic materials such as leaves and debris.
• Remove water that may have pooled on the top of the barrel at least once a week or use a barrel with a self-draining lid.
• Use a downspout diverter to direct water into the barrel.
• Regularly check the barrel and quickly repair damaged or worn screens, clogged openings, and loose fitting lids or caps.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris.

 Large Water Tanks/Cisterns

• Cisterns (above and below ground) should be completely enclosed with no openings to the outside environment.
• Tightly seal cistern lids and connections.
• Cover all inlets, outlets, and vents with mosquito-proof screening (fine mesh -1/16 of an inch).
• Inspect on a regular basis to be sure there are no cracks or leaks and that all seals and fittings remain intact.
• The area surrounding cisterns should be designed to either divert or absorb excess water from overflow.

If you suspect an issue with mosquitoes, call our District for help at 707-285-2200.