Public health pesticide use in California: a comparative summary

California pesticide use summary data and use reports from local vector control agencies were reviewed to document public health pesticide use patterns. During the 15-year period 1993-2007, public health pesticide use averaged 1.75 million lb (0.79 million kg) (AI), accounted for < 1% of reportable pesticide use statewide, and ranked below major crop uses and many nonagricultural uses. A review of reports from local vector control agencies (2004-07) indicated that their applications were principally for mosquito control and represented > 99% of all reported public health pesticide use. Petroleum distillates, principally larviciding oils, accounted for 88% of public health pesticide use. Pyrethrins and naled, used as mosquito adulticides, increased substantially in recent years (post-2004), coinciding with increased West Nile virus control activities and availability of emergency funding.