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Jamestown’s mosquito control program is focusing on ground-level treatments after eliminating costly aerial spraying in April. The city canceled aerial applications when Vector Disease Control International quoted $36,000 per use.
Bill Laskowski, who oversees the program, says the approach is working well. “We haven’t used aerial spraying for the past two years,” he explained. Laskowski says that aerial spraying would cost them $15,000 just to reserve the chemicals and service from the company, and an additional $10,000 if they decide to use them. “By freeing up that money, we’re able to do more with our larvicide program.” He says that larvicide chemical costs have risen 22% over the past years.
The shift focuses on prevention, treating waterways and runoff areas before mosquitoes become adults. Laskowski describes fogging as “a Band-Aid,” while larvicide treatments target the source. The program uses ten traps around town to monitor mosquito populations daily.
Ground-level fogging also addresses pollinator concerns, as crews can turn off equipment near beehives and gardens. Night spraying targets mosquitoes when pollinators are inactive.
With recent rains increasing mosquito activity, residents can expect fogging operations to begin in the coming nights. The program is funded through what Laskowski says is about a $2 monthly utility fee, adding to the vector control fund. As of March 31, the fund had approximately $347,000 for chemicals, equipment, and staffing.
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