There has been continued concern about the proliferating rat population in and around Juniper Valley Park as well as in other locations in Maspeth and Middle Village. Unfortunately, residents are not always reporting these problems to 311. According to the online 311 map, for a 4-week period this summer, only 10 complaints of rodents were reported for the entire 11379 zip code. In order for the NYC Department of Health to know where the problems lie and take action, all rat sightings and conditions conducive to attracting rats should be reported to 311. If you are experiencing a rat problem on your own property, one way to repel them and raccoons is to buy Mint-X brand trash bags. The smell and flavor of mint is known to be distasteful to many animals and prevents them from chewing through your garbage.