Something will be in the air starting Monday, but the City of Winnipeg says it's not mosquitos.

An insect control expert with the city says lower than average precipitation is resulting in less standing water, making it easier to target mosquito larvae in the aquatic stage.

“With the below normal fall and winter precipitation received over the last 6 months, there is a smaller amount of standing water compared to normal. A routine larviciding program is anticipated as the mosquitoes have begun to hatch in the water,” Ken Nawolsky, Superintendent of Insect Control, says in a statement.

The environmentally-friendly method will have four helicopters flying at low altitudes, spraying larvicides. The city says this is the most effective approach to controlling the mosquito population, something Winnipeg is known for.

Before the spraying occurs, the city will issue signage 24 hours in advance. Public spaces such as golf courses and large parks will be restricted to the public 20 minutes before and after the treatment. Those wishing for their property to be excluded can register as “Anti-Pesticide Registrants” at least 72 hours in advance.

Over 28,000 hectares of water area will be monitored afterwards.

For mosquitos that survive, the adults will be trapped in New Jersey Light Traps starting on April 30. The city will be posting trap counts regularly, starting May 3.

They are asking property owners to not have standing water on their properties, saying to:

  • Dump It! - containers
  • Drain It! - eavestroughing or unused containers
  • Cover It! - rainwater collection containers
  • Fill It! - low-lying areas
  • Treat It! - biological larvicide