According to the 2016 – 2017 Farmer’s Almanac it is going to be a very wet winter for the Southern half of the States. A warmer and wetter spring may bring the onslaught of flies and mosquitoes. For most people that doesn’t mean a whole lot. But…for farmers and equestrians it can be a real nightmare. Along the coast, with above average rain fall, tides will be higher than normal, creating the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies. The same can be said about lakes, rivers and streams. I know in 2004 when hurricane Ivan reached as far as Atlanta our farm and many farms in the areas were flooded. The winter was mild and very wet. Nothing ever seemed to dry out. The following Spring we were inundated with flies and mosquitoes. A busy bug season means stomping, snorting, head tossing animals, especially horses. With all signs pointing to fly infestations, now is the time to starting preparing the home and surrounding buildings. We also spent many hours researching for the proper fly and mosquito control. Did you know not all insect control products work well outside or visa-versa? Citronella candles and coils are only effective in closed areas and to some the odor is unpleasant. Sprays, especially wall-mounted, automatic systems, can be one of the easiest options for fly and mosquito control but do you really want all those chemicals constantly raining down on you and your animals? Plus, a lot of chemicals also kill off the good bugs which can really upset the natural balance of nature. Several of the insecticides sold in the states have been banned in other countries. You’ll note manufactures promoting Pyrethrins say it is a 100 per cent all natural and completely safe. The fact that Pyrethrins are derived from plants causes some people to think they are harmless. Just because it comes from something ornamental and lush does not mean it’s safe. Azalea, mistletoe, Oleander and foxglove are just a couple of the pretty and highly toxic plants found in our environment. The best way to combat flies and mosquitoes is with biological control – natural or good bugs. Fly Parasites are gnat size, nocturnal, and do not sting or bite. They spend their entire life cycle on or near manure or decomposing organic material and will not migrate into patios, kitchens or houses. Fly Parasites are just about unnoticeable. Ask Brad the Bugman! He’ll tell you. 
Keep any pooled water cleared – my husband spent many hours on the tractor grading the rings, driveway, around the water troughs and pastures. We kept the manure spread and were diligent about cleaning the stalls.