For Immediate Release
Monday, December 14, 1998
Release CDFA98-124 |
Contact: Myrlys
L. Williams
Oscar Hidalgo
(916) 654-0462 |
RED IMPORTED
FIRE ANT HOTLINE ESTABLISHED
As part of a continuing
survey of the Red Imported Fire Ant infestation in
Orange County, the California Department of Food and
Agriculture (CDFA) is seeking the public's help in
determining the exact locations of any fire ant mounds.
CDFA has established
a toll-free telephone Pest Response Line for residents
to report the locations of any fire ant colonies on
their property or in their neighborhood. The
line will be staffed during normal business hours.
Residents also may leave a message after hours.
Unlike other serious
pests, there is no trap for RIFA that can detect their
presence. Therefore, visual surveys must be conducted
throughout the county.
Where RIFA might
be found:
Where there is moisture and good drainage, such as
greenbelts, under trees, edges of lawns and bedded
plants. Where ground that has been cleared and recently
landscaped.
What to look
for:
Mounds are similar to gopher mounds, except soil deposited
is of finer texture. Mounds vary in size, from
golf ball to basketball size. Ant stings resulting
in a pustule on the skin and a burning sensation.
Where to call:
The CDFA Pest Response Line at 1-800-491-1899.
The public's help will
be greatly appreciated. For more information on the
Red Imported Fire Ant infestation, visit CDFA's website
at www.cdfa.ca.gov
or call the Department's Office of Public Affairs
at 916-654-0462.
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