The aerial mosquito spray mission planned for the Lower Richland area is set for Wednesday, Nov. 11, at dusk, weather permitting. The spray treatment was originally scheduled for last week, though several consecutive days of rain and mist forced the mission to be postponed.
This aerial treatment is being done across 114,000 acres in Lower Richland in response to the recent flooding, which has caused a surge in mosquito populations.
The product used in this application, Dibrom, is registered for use with the Environmental Protection Agency for use in mosquito population control and poses no undue risks to humans or the environment. Dibrom is applied at low dosage rates using specialized equipment that automatically adjusts for aircraft speed, altitude and wind speed.
Residents do not need to take any special precautions during the treatment. However, area beekeepers are urged to cover their hives during the application period.
Residents who have questions about the aerial treatments may contact Richland County Vector Control at 803-576-2425 or the Richland County Ombudsman at 803-929-6000.
Vector Control officials urge residents to help combat the increased mosquito activity by emptying any standing water on their property and using protective measures such as wearing long sleeves and using repellents according to the label.