Kane County Reporter

The City of Aurora's Street Maintenance Division has initiated its annual mosquito abatement program. This effort aims to reduce the spread of the West Nile Virus and protect residents from mosquito bites.

The program includes both in-house and contracted services, beginning with the treatment of approximately 12,000 catch basins across the city. These basins are treated with "Natular Tablets," organic products that prevent mosquito larvae from maturing into adults.

Additionally, five mosquito light traps have been set up throughout Aurora. These traps are emptied three times a week by Clarke Environmental, a contracted mosquito management company. If more than 30 female mosquitoes are found in a trap, the Street Maintenance Division will spray Anvil 2+2 Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) insecticide in the affected area.

Anvil 2+2 ULV is dispensed through a truck-mounted fogging unit that releases aerosol droplets to kill mosquitoes on contact. The amount used is minimal, about three to five ounces per acre, reducing exposure risks to people and the environment. All insecticides used must be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Fogging operations are scheduled for dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Although no law mandates resident notification before fogging, Clarke Environmental will monitor and update the Street Maintenance Division on any public health concerns.

The Illinois Department of Public Health reports over 15 cases of West Nile Virus in DuPage County out of nearly 100 statewide cases. Aurora's proactive measures aim to ensure resident safety during summer.

Residents seeking more information or wishing to receive notifications about neighborhood spraying can contact Clarke Environmental at (800) 942-2555.