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Rockland County Health Department Announces Annual Mosquito Control Treatment of Catch Basins and Storm Drains

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1 month ago

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NEW CITY, NY — As mosquito season approaches, the Rockland County Department of Health has launched its annual mosquito control initiative aimed at protecting residents from mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Beginning on or around May 12, 2025, health officials will begin treating approximately 57,000 catch basins and storm drains across the county. The treatment process is expected to be completed by early June.

“Rockland County has about 57,000 catch basins and storm drains, many of which have the potential to breed mosquitoes,” said Amy Isenberg, Environmental Health Specialist and Mosquito Program Coordinator. “We treat these structures annually to help control the mosquito population and protect the community from diseases mosquitoes can carry.”

The treatment will be conducted by Health Department staff using slow-moving County vehicles, frequently stopping to access catch basins and storm drains. The Department urges drivers and pedestrians to be patient and avoid parking over storm drains during this time to ensure workers can easily perform treatments.
Why Mosquito Control Matters

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, where larvae hatch and develop over a period of 7 to 10 days before emerging as adult mosquitoes capable of biting and transmitting dangerous viruses.

To help reduce mosquito breeding, residents are encouraged to eliminate sources of standing water on their property, such as:

Birdbaths, pet bowls, and plant saucers (change water regularly)

Unused toys, buckets, tarps, wading pools, and wheelbarrows (flip or store when not in use)

Free Mosquito Control Resources Available

To support public participation in mosquito control, the Rockland County Department of Health is offering free mosquito prevention tools to residents:

Mosquito Dunks®

Where: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona

How: Must be ordered in advance by calling 845-364-3173 or emailing wnv@co.rockland.ny.us

What: Dunks are donut-shaped tablets that float in standing water and release a natural bacterium that kills mosquito larvae. Suitable for unused swimming pools and spas.

Fathead Minnows Giveaway – One Day Only!

When: Wednesday, May 21, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Where: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, Pomona

What: These small fish feed on mosquito larvae and are ideal for use in ornamental ponds, unused pools, or any water body with at least 8 inches of water.

Reserve: Call 845-364-3173 or reserve online.

The annual mosquito treatment program is a proactive step toward keeping Rockland County residents safe and reducing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. By combining county-wide efforts with individual homeowner participation, the Health Department aims to make a significant impact on the local mosquito population this summer.

For more information on mosquito prevention or to reserve mosquito control products, call the Rockland County Health Department at 845-364-3173.

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Government

Flags To Be Flown at Half-Staff Across New York State on Monday, June 16 in Honor of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman

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2 days ago

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June 16, 2025

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ALBANY, NY – Governor Hochul today directed that flags on all State government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, who passed away during the politically targeted shootings in Minnesota on June 14. Flags will be at half-staff Monday, June 16.

“I join the State of Minnesota, family and loved ones in mourning the horrific loss of Representative Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman, and I am directing flags to be flown at half-staff in New York to honor Mr. and Ms. Hortman,” Governor Hochul said. “We should be settling our political differences in civil means — like at the ballot box — because violence is never the answer.” said Governor Hochul.

Congressman Mike Lawler

Assemblyman Patrick Carroll said “I am horrified by the murder of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the attempted murder of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, by the same perpetrator.

Any elected official enters public service to share our voice in government and advocate for our neighbors and the community. While disagreements and opposition to our positions is expected – never should any public servant be the target of violence or threats of violence. Our families sacrifice time with us as we do our governmental work but never themselves should worry that our service is putting them in harms way.

My heart is with the Hartman and Hoffman families. Be safe everyone.”

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Government

New York State Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Weber’s Bill to Expand Trade Union Recruitment in High Schools

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3 days ago

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June 16, 2025

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Nanuet, NY – In a major step toward expanding career opportunities for students across New York State, the Senate has unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Senator Bill Weber (Senate Bill S5675), which empowers trade unions to conduct recruiting presentations in high schools. The bill, which passed with bipartisan support, is being sponsored in the Assembly by Labor Committee Chair Assemblyman Harry Bronson.

Under current law, trade unions have limited access to high school students to share information about apprenticeships and career paths in the trades. Senator Weber’s legislation changes that by allowing trade unions—when invited by school administrators—to speak directly with students, distribute materials, and explain the benefits of union-supported career training and employment.

The bill will help address workforce shortages in critical sectors while providing students with a clearer understanding of all post-graduation options—including those that do not involve student debt.

“This legislation is about expanding horizons for our students,” said Senator Weber. “College is one path, but not the only one. Trade unions offer well-paying careers with benefits, security, and a future. Our young people deserve to hear about every opportunity available to them.”

Residents and advocates are encouraged to contact Speaker Carl Heastie’s office at 518-455-3791 and urge him to advance Assembly Bill A03734 to the floor for a vote.

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