AERIAL BUFFER APPLICATIONS OF NALED FOR ADULT MOSQUITO CONTROL, ST. JOHNS COUNTY, NORTHEASTERN FLORIDA

Aerial applications of pesticides for adult mosquito control have emerged as effective tools in integrated mosquito management due to wider reach compared with ground-based methods. A key determinant for efficacy is the swath or line of spray deposition. This study aimed to assess the potential of aerial buffer sprays, which specifically target mosquito habitats, in comparison to traditional full-area aerial and ground-based applications. The efficacy and cost implications of these methods were evaluated in hot spot areas of St. Johns County, FL. Mosquito populations in 4 areas, 2 for buffer aerial (St. Johns County Golf Course and World Golf Village), 1 for full aerial (Flagler Estate), and 1 for ground-based (Elkton) treatments, were assessed using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention light traps baited with octenol. Following treatments, mosquito population reductions and service request changes were evaluated. For aerial applications, the organophosphate naled was used, while ground applications used the pyrethroid Aqualuer® 20-20. Buffer aerial applications averaged 668.5 ha, significantly smaller than full aerial treatments (3750.2 ha). Cost and volume for buffer applications were notably lower ($1,998.47 and 34.1 liters) than full treatments ($10,558.40 and 180.6 liters). Mosquito populations posttreatment showed a 63.6% reduction for buffer applications, 59% for full aerial applications, and a 52% increase for ground-based treatments. Service request reductions were varied, with a slight increase (0.13%) after buffer aerial treatments and substantial reductions after full aerial (29.4%) and ground applications (87.5%). Buffer aerial applications demonstrated potential as an effective and cost-efficient method for mosquito control in targeted habitats. Although further evaluations are essential, such strategies could reshape mosquito management practices in regions similar to the Anastasia Mosquito Control District of St. Johns County.