Mosquito abatement representative reports drone purchase, under-budget year and West Nile detections

Thomas Jensen, the Corinne Mosquito Abatement representative, reported to the council that the district operates with about four full-time employees and roughly 10–11 seasonal workers and that last year's operations came in under budget despite some facility and street expenses.

Jensen said the district recently purchased a drone that covers areas far faster than 4-wheelers and could, over time, reduce reliance on aircraft applications. "For example, what would use to take a few hours on a 4-wheeler, the drone can cover in like a half hour," Jensen said, calling the equipment "hugely more effective." He added drones can access areas that crop-dusting aircraft and 4-wheelers cannot because of power-line and other restrictions.

On public-health risk, Jensen told the council that mosquitoes can lay eggs that remain dormant for up to about 10 years and that a wet season can trigger large hatches. He also reported trap detections of West Nile virus and said there was at least one West Nile death reported in the Beaver Dam area during the last season.

Jensen said the district budgeted roughly the same for the coming year and noted a recent roof replacement at their building and a city-required street contribution that completed under budget. The council asked clarifying questions about the drone program and airborne spraying; Jensen said the district previously contracted drone work but has begun operating its own equipment this year.

The council did not take action on the report; Jensen's briefing served as an informational presentation and preview of operational priorities for the coming season.