Mayor Sam Katz has ordered a review of the city’s current buffer zone requirement when it comes to fighting mosquitoes.
At a meeting Wednesday morning with the Executive Policy Committee, Katz presented a motion to review the adult mosquito control policy. “Winnipeggers look forward to enjoying our wonderful summers and we need to do our part to ensure everyone can enjoy them,” Katz said in a statement. “With the severe rainfalls combined with the heat we’ve experienced, we’ve seen a steady rise in mosquito populations that are directly affecting the quality of life and potentially the health of our citizens.”
The month-long review will look at the adulticiding factor analysis guidelines, the criteria for conducting barrier treatments, the impact of Anti-Pesticide Registrant buffer zones, and to explore alternative methods of conducting larviciding and adulticiding operations. The motion also asks the city to consult with the Province of Manitoba to ensure that the provincially-issued Pesticide Use Permit reflects best practises.
The EPC passed the motion in a vote of 13-1.
On Tuesday, St. Vital councillor Gord Steeves also raised the issue of a buffer zone review.
ChrisD.ca photo
