The Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) are continuing to monitor midge larvae at Lake Goollelal and Lake Joondalup.
Monitoring this season has highlighted that large numbers of midge larvae are living in both these wetlands.
When water quality deteriorates, mainly due to high nutrient levels, midge breeding can increase, resulting in a greater impact of nuisance adult midge to residents living in close proximity to lakes and wetlands.
However, the most recent monitoring has shown a sharp decline in midge larvae numbers at both Lakes.
The Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo and the DEC will continue to monitor the midge numbers and depending on results, will consider treating both Lakes in the coming weeks/months.
Treating a Lake for midge is a short-term control measure, which is usually carried out during summer months where midge larvae counts are high and are impacting on nearby residents.
The frequency and the timing of these treatments are limited by many factors including environmental restrictions.
The Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo, and the DEC are also involved in the funding of research projects, which investigate factors affecting water quality and elevated midge breeding.
These studies provide valuable information for the creation and implementation of midge management and reduction initiatives.