Council seeks data on mosquito aerial spraying after Maryland Dept. of Agriculture operation treated nearly 17,000 acres

Council members discussed recent mosquito aerial spraying by the Maryland Department of Agriculture that targeted multiple communities in Dorchester County and requested follow-up data from the state on the scope and operational details.

A county representative read a public information release indicating that starting that day, weather permitting, aircraft would fly to treat areas and that "Approximately, 16,938 acres will be treated." Council members said the county spends about $500,000 a year on mosquito control programs and asked for records of acres treated, number of flights and gallons used to assess effectiveness and cost.

Members asked for an annual summary of spraying activity and suggested the county request a snapshot report from MDA showing acreage, flight counts and other records so the council can better evaluate the return on the county’s investment.