Coloradoans are now allowed to collect rainwater, thanks to a new law. But the district manager for Colorado Mosquito Control in Montezuma County, Jason Carruth, warns rain barrels can become mosquito breeding grounds and sources of disease.
Though Zika-carrying mosquitoes don’t live in the area, the Durango Herald reports18 mosquitoes caught in Durango last week were carrying West Nile. Carruth says it’s a real concern.
"I do know of one case that we highly suspect of West Nile that came probably six or seven years ago, and we suspect it came from a rain barrel that wasn't being used," he says.
Carruth says to put mesh or a lid over your rainwater and use it promptly.
