Integrated Mosquito Management
The TCMAD practices an Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) approach to controlling mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry.
We support the management of vector populations when and where necessary by means of an integrated program designed to
benefit or to have minimal adverse effects on people, domestic animals, wildlife and the environment.
This integrated pest management policy recognizes that vector populations cannot always be eliminated,
but often must be suppressed to tolerable levels for the well being of humans, domestic animals and wildlife.
Selection of scientifically sound suppression methods must be based upon consideration of what is ecologically
and economically in the long-term interest of humankind.
The TCMAD follows these principles:
- Vector control measures are only be undertaken when there is adequate justification based upon surveillance data.
- The combination of methods for vector control is chosen after careful consideration of the efficacy, health effects, ecological effects and cost versus benefits of the various options; including public education, legal action, natural and biological control, elimination of the breeding sources, and pesticide applications.
- Vector breeding sources, whether natural or created by human activity, are altered in such a manner as to cause the least undesirable impact on the environment.
- Pesticides and application methods are used in the most efficient and least hazardous manner in accordance with all-applicable laws, regulations and available scientific data. The registered label requirements for pesticide use is always followed. When choices are available among effective pesticides, those offering the least hazard to non-target organisms are used. Pesticides are chosen and used in a manner that minimizes the development of resistance in vector populations.
- Personnel involved in the Vector Control program are properly trained and supervised, certified in accordance with relevant laws and regulations, and current with improvements in management techniques through continuing education and/or training programs.
All methods and materials used by the District are based on these principles.
