Spraying for mosquito control starts this week in Albert Lea

City News July 15, 2026

To protect public health and enhance outdoor enjoyment, the City of Albert Lea has contracted Mosquito Control of Iowa to begin weekly treatments. Weather permitting, spraying will begin at dusk on today, July 15.

In case of rainy or windy weather, Thursdays will be the back-up days for the remainder of the summer.

The company uses a product called Evoluer 4-4, which includes permethrin, a pesticide that is safe yet effective against mosquitoes and gnats. This product has quick knockdown, low odor, and is non-corrosive. This product is registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

For more information about the spraying service, call Mosquito Control of Iowa at 712-848-3295 or visit its website at http://mosquitocontrolofiowa.net. The website includes FAQs about mosquitoes and control strategies, including links to studies that show mosquito control does not harm bees.

To be removed from the spray area, property owners should contact Ryan Hajek, City of Albert Lea assistant public works director, at 507-377-4377 or rhajek@ci.albertlea.mn.us.

In addition to spraying, the city encourages residents to help control mosquitoes by taking these steps:

Eliminate outdoor trash, tires and containers which may hold water creating a breeding site for mosquitoes.
Maintain rain gutters and down spouts. Make sure no water remains in them after a rain.
Empty and clean bird baths weekly.
Store pails barrels, tubs, boats, wheel barrows and other items upside down to also avoid water collection.
Keep shrubs, lawns and weeds trimmed to eliminate harborage areas.

The City of Albert Lea’s mission is to deliver exceptional services that enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.