The primary insecticide used to control the immature stage is a biorational (a biological pesticide of natural origin that has limited or no adverse effects on the environment or other beneficial organisms) larvacide, which uses bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) to specifically target mosquito larvae. Mosquitoes feed on the bacteria, which then releases a crystallized toxin that ruptures the larvas stomach and causes death. Another target specific larvacide uses another bacteria called Bacillus sphaericus (Bs) for the same purpose. At times, an insect growth regulator that mimics naturally found hormones in mosquito larvae are used to suspend and damage the developmental stages of the immature mosquitoes. Biological control measures are also taken by utilizing different fish species to control larval populations in enclosed habitats. The state of New Jersey has established a statewide mosquito fish program that uses resources from the Division of Fish and Game to provide mosquito fish, Gambusia affinis, to counties as needed. In addition to Gambusia, the program also offers other species of fish for mosquito control, including the fathead minnow and two species of sunfish (Bluegill Sunfish and Pumpkin Seed Sunfish). Chemical control measures are also taken by using an organophosphate liquid larvacide on older larvae that no longer feed. A petroleum oil derivative is also used from time to time, which is mainly used as a pupacide in aquatic habitats. As a last resort, a synthetic pyrethroid is used as an adulticide if unusually large numbers of adult mosquitoes are present and public health is threatened. All pesticide applications comply with guidelines recommended for mosquito control in New Jersey by the Agricultural Experiment Station of Rutgers University and regulations set forth by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection.

The agency also conducts year round water management and source reduction projects that eliminate standing water. MCMC has adopted strategies, in accordance with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Best Management Practices (BMP), to reduce mosquito-breeding habitat by physically managing water's flow. This can range from removing logjams and blocks from a waterway, cleaning of detention basins to ensure proper drainage, stream clearance and environmentally friendly beaver management. Although most water management activities are conducted during the winter in preparation for the approaching season, management is also undertaken as needed during the summer season. Tire collections and removal have also been incorporated to reduce habitat areas for container breeding mosquitoes.

Mercer County
Mosquito Control
300 Scotch Road
West Trenton, New Jersey 08628
Tel: 609-530-7501
Fax: 609-530-7507
Email: mercermosquito@mercercounty.org

All complaints and general calls are promptly investigated, with follow-ups conducted to ensure that the problem does not persist.