Each year SROA contracts with Four Rivers Vector Control District, which regularly patrols through Sunriver with fog trucks, helicopter, boat and on foot to kill larvae and adult-flying mosquitoes. Spraying is also done in adjacent communities and nearby forest lands to help try and lessen the mosquito population in and around Sunriver.

Fog spraying is only effective on calm evenings between dusk and dawn when temperatures remain above 55 degrees. Spraying is not done during the day to avoid beneficial insects such as bees. Fogging runs kill flying adult mosquitoes and help intercept insects flying in from surrounding areas. A mosquito can migrate into Sunriver from more than 10 miles away.

Mosquitoes are part of the natural environment and only so much can be done. Even if Four Rivers Vector Control was in Sunriver every day there would still be mosquitoes – but would certainly be much worse if they weren't eradicating some of these pesky insects. Sunriver's "mosquito season" is generally over by mid-September.

Is there anything I can do to help?

Yes! Below are some tips on how you can assist in controlling mosquitoes around your home.

Remove Habitat Where Mosquitos Live & Breed

• Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, flower pots, buckets, tarps, spa covers, toys or other containers where water collects.
• Empty and change the water in bird baths, pet water bowls, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted plant trays every few days to destroy potential mosquito habitat. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as 1/4 inch of water.
• Keep hot tub and swimming pool water treated and circulating.

Reduce Your Exposure

• Use repellent products with Deet or Picaridin and follow label directions and precautions closely. Natural lemon eucalyptus oil may also deter mosquitoes.
• Use head nets and wear loose-fitting, light-colored long sleeve shirts and long pants in areas with high mosquito populations.
• Stay inside during the evening and early morning hours when mosquitoes are most active. The most common mosquito around Sunriver is the aedes vexans, which can be active at all hours.
• Make sure window and door screens are bug tight.
• Replace outdoor lights with yellow bug lights which tend to attract less mosquitoes than ordinary lights. The yellow lights are NOT repellents, however.
• Avoid using a bug zapper as it can kill the beneficial bugs that actually feed on the mosquitoes!