Control Options

Policy

The existence of nuisance midge swarms adversely affecting the quality of life of residents in close proximity of wetlands, has led The City of Cockburn to develop the APD6 Residential Rezoning and Subdivision Adjoining Midge Infested Lakes Policy. This policy restricts residential subdivison and development in areas most likely to be subjected to midge nuisance and to advise residents of the potential midge nuisance prior to purchase. Council does not support development within 500 m of a wetland and requires that land between 500 and 800 m be subject to a Memorial on the title of each residential lot advising the prospective buyer that the land may be affected by nuisance midge swarms. This control mechanism has been successful in preventing the development of nuisance midge problems in new residential developments but has limited application in established suburban areas. The City of Cockburn is currently the only Local Government Authority which has a zoning policy specific to nuisance midges and this management tool probably requires implementation on a wider scale, rather than further research at this point.

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Updated : 23 June, 2009