Filth Fly Control

Filth Flies

Large numbers of filth flies are a natural result of the many livestock that arrive at Frontier Park every year for Cheyenne Frontier Days.   Weed and Pest coordinates with Laramie County Environmental Health to reduce fly pests and minimize the risk of disease transmission from filth flies and to improve the quality of life for all humans at animals at the park.

Biological Control of Filth Flies

Two different biological control methods are used on the park grounds during CFD.  Half a billion microscopic roundworms (Steinernema carpocapsae) are applied to livestock areas weeks before animals arrive.  These roundworms infect developing flies and produce multiple generations that continue to reduce flies in the area.  These worms do not harm non-insects and are a safe and organic method to limit the number of flies during the event.

Small parasitic wasps (Spalangia endius) are spread around animal pens weekly after livestock arrive on the grounds. Immature wasps grow inside of fly pupae and hatch as an adult that will infect more fly pupae and provide a recurring source of fly control.  These wasps are the size of a gnat and do not bite or sting humans and animals.  

Mechanical Control

Over 100 disposable fly traps are place around Frontier Park during July and August to help contain filth flies.  Traps supplement biological control efforts and keep flies from moving outside the park or from reaching food vendors on the west end of the grounds.