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A Saltmarsh mosquito feeding

Living with Mosquitoes- a regional strategy

Mosquitoes create nuisance and health problems during seasonal plagues throughout most of Port Stephens.

The Port Stephens local government area contains approximately 2 500 Ha of saltmarsh and a further 12 000 Ha (approximately) of other wetlands. Neighbouring councils also contain significant wetlands.

These extensive wetlands are capable of producing enormous seasonal populations of the Saltmarsh Mosquito (Aedes vigilax) and other mosquito species. Saltmarsh mosquitoes can cause an impact up to 15 km from the breeding areas, resulting in most areas within Port Stephens experiencing plagues at some time.

Council has historically undertaken some control measures to ameliorate the impacts of mosquitoes - although there is no legislation in NSW requiring councils or owners of land to control mosquito breeding. Changes to various legislation in the last few years has reduced the ability of council to conduct even limited control measures.

A regional mosquito management strategy has been prepared which will guide councils and other land managers in responding to mosquito management issues. The document is available from the Hunter New England Health website, along with a series of informative factsheets.

Use this link to access the Regional Strategy and mosquito fact sheets

www.mosquitoes.nsw.gov.au

Contact details
Graham Prichard
49800392 (ph)
graham.prichard@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

© 2008 Port Stephens Council
This page: http://www.portstephens.local-e.nsw.gov.au/environment/1276/46656.html