The municipality of Lignano Sabbiadoro is launching its latest campaign to combat mosquito populations and the processionary caterpillar as part of its preparations for the upcoming beach season. Vice Mayor, Manuel Massimiliano La Placa, emphasized the importance of disinfestation efforts to protect both residents and tourists from insect-transmitted diseases.
"For a tourist city like Lignano Sabbiadoro, organizing efficient disinfestation activities means providing important service to residents and guests," La Placa said. The campaign is particularly focused on controlling two species of mosquitoes: the tiger mosquito and the common mosquito. These measures will involve larvicides, which target insect larvae before they develop, as well as efforts to limit the adult mosquito population.
Besides mosquitoes, the campaign also addresses the threat posed by the processionary caterpillar, which has recently been classified as endemic by a ministerial decree. La Placa elaborated, stating, "Even though treatments for processionary caterpillars are no longer mandatory, our administration intends to continue its efforts to combat them," citing the use of pheromones against these pests to protect green areas.
La Placa has been vocal about the need for structured disinfestation since the beginning of his term, recognizing its role not just in maintaining public comfort, but also public health. After three campaign seasons already completed, he feels positive about the work done so far. "This year we will continue with anti-mosquito measures. Once again, we will need the public's cooperation for the private green areas; larvicide tablets will be available at the Municipality," La Placa mentioned.
The need for comprehensive pest control has been accentuated by climate irregularities experienced last season. Many areas faced unusual weather patterns, with heavy rainfall followed by prolonged heat, contributing to increased mosquito and chironomid incidents. Technical experts from the local government and the contracted pest control company recognize the complexity of the chironomid issue, describing it as irregular and difficult to predict with conventional tools.
This recognition of the challenges posed by the local ecosystem has prompted discussions between municipal management and affected private parties, including recent meetings with representatives from Marina Punta Faro. These collaborations aim to set the groundwork for combined monitoring and preventive measures concerning the insect population.
Further, La Placa noted the necessity of addressing the rat population as part of the broader disinfestation efforts, affirming it as one of the frequently repeated activities across the locality as part of maintaining district-wide hygiene.
Overall, this campaign reflects Lignano Sabbiadoro’s commitment to maintaining the safety and well-being of its community and visitors, ensuring the city remains appealing and healthy as it approaches the vibrant tourist season.