Valkill Mosquito Survey

Edman, John

The purpose of this study was to identify the species and breeding sources of the pest mosquitoes which annoy visitors to Valkill and provide recommendaUons relative to the abatement of this problem. According to Park Service personnel, mosquitoes frequently limit the time visitors spend at ValVill and their enjoyment of the grounds. This prctlem is reportedl y most intense during the first half of the summer season. 1985 proved to be an unusually light mosquito year throughout the Northeast and for this reason it was not an ideal year for conducting a one-time surve y . Nonetheless, useful data were collected and some tentative recommendations can be made. The low water table, light winter snowfall, and lack of major spring and summer rainstorms, all contributed to the low mosquito populations,