April 2018

PEST CONTROL... from page 28.

The mosquito to worry about in the New Jersey is the black and white Asian tiger mosquito. These mosquitoes are per- sistent biters that bite at all times, day or night. The Asian tiger is a known carrier of encephalitis viruses and the West Nile virus. Fortunately, in New Jersey, there have not been any reported local mosquito transmissions of the dreaded Zika virus responsible for microcephaly and other birth defects. Property managers must be vigilant about protecting grounds and tenants from these dangerous pests. The key is prevention. For mosquito prevention, thoroughly inspect your property and make sure that all standing water, which mosquitoes use to lay their eggs and breed, is eliminated. For tick prevention, eliminate tick harborage sites, including good lawn care. High grass = high ticks! There are also preventative mosquito and tick treatments available from pest control services that act as a barrier to keep these pests off your property. Conclusion Developing a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program tailored specifically for the needs of your CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 56

easily move through. They prefer damp, dead wood since it’s easier for them to chew through. When left untreated, carpenter ants will create large nests within wooden struc- tures causing extensive damage. Ticks and Mosquitoes The two insects that are a major health hazard to resi- dents and employees are ticks and mosquitoes. These biting blood-suckers are responsible for spreading a host of diseas- es. Scientists refer to these insects as “disease vectors” because they act as middlemen, taking the infected blood of some animal (most often, the white-footed mouse) and transferring it to people when they bite us for their next blood meal. These insects, especially ticks, are known mostly for transmitting Lyme disease, a chronic disease that can leave those affected with debilitating neurological and cardiac problems. New Jersey has the dubious distinction of the second highest total number of cases of Lyme disease, second only to Pennsylvania.

The sunshine and warm weather that we love also contributes to nuisance vegetation and algae blooms in our communities’ lakes and stormwater ponds. As part of an annual management plan, our teamwill not only help restore andmaintain balance in your aquatic ecosystem, but also keep your waterbody looking beautiful year-round.

Want to learn more? Download our free guide: “Your Guide to Sustainable Pond Algae and Aquatic Weed Control” www.solitudelakemanagement.com/balance

Water: It’s 71% of your world...100% of ours. 855.534.3545 • solitudelakemanagement.com

For a full list of our superior service offerings, visit www.solitudelakemanagement.com/services

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