With the mosquito season upon us, and the concern presented by West Nile virus and other mosquito borne diseases, county mosquito control agencies can provide information about environmentally safe and appropriate ways to control mosquitoes. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has a new toll- free number that directs callers to the appropriate county mosquito control agency in their area. The number is (1-888-666-5968). "Rather than misuse or over apply insecticides and repellents, New Jersey residents should contact their county mosquito control agencies who are trained, licensed and permitted to perform a variety of mosquito control activities and can provide helpful guidance to local residents and businesses," said DEP Commissioner Bradley Campbell. Now that the mosquito season is here, Campbell is also reminding members of the public to take common sense steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Steps include wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants when outdoors, particularly at dusk and dawn; making sure screens on windows and doors are in good repair; and applying appropriate insect repellant when going outdoors. Since March, mosquito larvae have been actively developing. Both state and county government mosquito control agencies are surveying for and applying control strategies to prevent the emergence of mosquitoes to the flying adult stage. Control methods include the stocking of mosquito-eating fish that consume the larvae and the application of targeted, low-impact insecticides.