Full Notification

Meadowlands Regional Midge Insect Infestation

The Borough met with Bergen County Health Officials this morning, July 25, 2018, to discuss the recent infestation of an insect called a midge, which is not a mosquito.  The midge that has descended upon the Meadowlands District belongs to the insect family called chrionomidae.  This family of midge insects do not bite and therefore do not spread disease.  

There has been some concern expressed by citizens that if adult midge insects enter their home or business, the potential exists for the midge to lay its eggs, producing more midge insects.  We were assured that this is not possible as the reproduction of the midge insect requires mud flats and fresh water. 

It was further communicated that this infestation may be ongoing for the next several weeks; however, it can be shortened with continuous hot sunny weather.  This residential/commercial nuisance can be controlled by either soliciting the services of a private pest control company or purchasing an over-the-counter pest control spray at Home Depot or Loews. 

The Bergen County Mosquito Commission provides services to control mosquitos and ticks because these insects cause and spread disease, midges do not.  Additionally, the Borough was informed that the midge insect, although a public nuisance, is an essential part of the ecosystem as it feeds the Meadowlands’ migratory birds.  As the Borough receives more information, you will be updated regarding this matter.