Integrated Pest Management
Image: Field Technician loading product into hoppers on helicopter
IPM uses methods to control mosquitoes based on an understanding of mosquito biology, the mosquito life cycle, and the way mosquitoes spread viruses. The methods used, when followed correctly, are effective have been scientifically proven to reduce mosquito populations.
Surveillance
Traps to capture mosquitoes are utilized year-round. Traps are set up on Monday and counted Tuesday – Friday and identified (down to the species). The District utilizes this data to plan for operations as well as to gauge the effectiveness of treatments. Surveillance of areas that generate mosquitoes is also done on foot, via sUAS and helicopter.
Larviciding (Pre-Treatments)
Larviciding is treating mosquito larvae to break the lifecycle, preventing adult mosquitoes. This is often called proactive control. Larvaciding occurs during the day on foot, via sUAS, or by Helicopter.
Adulticiding
Adulticing is treating mature mosquitoes. This operation is done at night. The District uses Ultra Low Volume (ULV) systems on its trucks and helicopters to disperse microscopic droplets of product. Using ULV allows the rate of product to be quite low: less than 1 ounce per acre. Droplets from ULV are calibrated to affect mosquitoes (20 microns) and disperse quickly, usually within 4 hours.
