| Rainwater Tanks - Controlling Mosquito Risk |
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 Now the drought has broken, the backyard rainwater tank has lost its exalted status as the ‘hero’ of the water conservation movement. More recently, it has even been maligned as a potential ‘villain’ – the rogue harbourer of disease and mosquitoes.With dengue fever outbreaks already reported in the far north of the state, the seasonal mosquito-awareness campaign will soon start. As in the past, we can also expect to hear the dire predictions regarding the role of rainwater tanks in the spread of mosquito-borne disease*. Truth is that well-maintained tanks pose no greater threat – perhaps even less - as mosquito breeding sites than the myriad of water-pooling opportunities present in the average suburban backyard. However, the potential risk is perceived as being greater due to the ideal breeding conditions which would be presented by large volumes of neglected, stagnant tank water in the community. Current research being conducted by the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) will expand on previous findings regarding the increased threat of mosquito breeding in relation to household water storage practice. This research will involve up to 10,000 Brisbane houses and is planned to continue until 2012**. In all probability, significant mosquito infestation will be detected in tanks which have not been adequately maintained. The majority of rainwater tanks installed during the height of the tank rebate period are now approaching several years age. With only a scant public awareness campaign regarding the importance of regular maintenance, we inevitably see examples of breakdown in rainwater system integrity and water quality. Considering that over 40% of properties in South East Queensland have at least one rainwater tank installed, very little has been done to promote preventative tank maintenance. Local Council and State Government bodies direct tank maintenance enquiries to online information of a general nature. Compared with the initial promotion of tank installation, little has been done to promote proactive maintenance or offer practical advice when problems do occur. Important points to remember to avoid your rainwater tank turning into a mosquito haven:
A global rise in the number of dengue fever outbreaks being reported means that this season, the vigilance of the public in eliminating all potential mosquito breeding sites is crucial. Rainwater system maintenance is essential and relates as much to maximising water conservation as it does to mitigating mosquitoes and other health risks. With South-East Queensland population still rising almost as fast as water charges, having a rainwater tank provides a simple and effective means of water conservation and cost savings. Just a little care stands to make the difference between hero and villain. Author Name Christina Ginevra Author Bio Christina lives in Brisbane, Queensland and operates Water Tactics with husband Jim. Water Tactics provides specialised rainwater harvesting, irrigation and water filtration services. Christina has a personal interest in health and safety aspects of rainwater as an alternate water supply. |
