SGVpools - Eaton Area Response
Mosquitoes only need a small amount of stagnant water to complete their life cycles. If left unmaintained, a single swimming pool can produce up to 3 million adult mosquitoes in one month. This is a huge public health challenge for all residents and the District.
Only two conditions will guarantee that mosquitoes do not grow: "Clean and Functional" or "Empty and Dry." For pools that will remain full and non-operational during the Eaton Area Recovery Phase, the district may provide long-term treatments or mosquito fish distribution.
Enroll in the program to facilitate our ability to monitor and control mosquitoes in your pool.
Choose One of Three Ways to Enroll
If you would like to enroll into the District's program, please reach out using one of the three ways outlined below. We will request contact information, property address, and the status of your pool.
1. Text Eaton Enroll to 626-314-6006.
2. Email Eaton Enroll to SwimmingPool@SGVmosquito.org.
3. Call 626-314-6006. A vector control specialist will coordinate enrollment.
Residents can expect to receive further guidance on the District's next steps regarding their pool. Currently, the District is assessing environmental conditions, mosquito abundance, and resource allocation to provide the best support services during this unprecedented time.
Support Programs
Mosquito Fish Program - The mosquito fish, Gambusia affinis, is a topminnow from North America that is used around the world to control mosquito larvae. These fish are a low-maintenance, long-term treatment strategy to prevent the development of mosquitoes in non-functional pools. After initial assessment of the pool, the District will deliver the fish, free of charge. The resident is responsible for reporting to the District if the fish die or are unsuccessful.
Long-term Pesticide Treatment - A clean and functional pool is the best way to stay mosquito-free. Pesticide treatments are available as a long-term solution for residents who are in the process of restoring their pool to a clean and functional state. The District will work with the resident to provide chemical control as the resident is actively pursuing a permanent solution.
We understand that you may not have access to your pool to provide this confirmation. However, please share if you have directed the County or contractors to empty your pool during the recovery phase.
An empty and dry pool is kept completely dry and free of debris, year-round. If possible, the District requests confirmation to ensure no water has been left to collect at the bottom. Confirmation can be completed two ways:
- Photo Confirmation: When registered for a photo confirmation, the resident can confirm the condition of the pool by sending a picture to the District via text or email. The District will request up to four photos throughout the year either text or email.
- Schedule a Physical Inspection: When registered for a physical, on-site confirmation, the District will send out a vector control specialist to visit the property and confirm the pool's condition. The District will request up to four inspections a year, which will be scheduled in advance through phone, text, or email.
Acceptable Pool Conditions
Clean and Functional Pool
A "Clean and Functional" pool has a working pump and filtration system, and a regular chemical treatment schedule. Water must be clear, with little to no algae or debris. Once a clean and functional pool is confirmed, no further action is needed.
Empty and Dry Pool
An "Empty and Dry" pool is completely dry and free of debris. Mosquitoes will continue to lay eggs and grow throughout mild winters so the pool will need to be emptied between rains. Standing water should not be left for more than four days.
Empty and dry pools need regular maintenance to stay mosquito-free. These pools will require ongoing maintenance by the resident. Long-term strategies, such as mosquito fish, may be available for non-functional pools.
Note: Swimming pools without water are prone to costly structural damage. The District in no way recommends that anyone empty their pool and encourages residents to research the negative impact of removing the water.
