Des Moines so far has no plans to resume regular mosquito spraying this summer — the first time in over 25 years the city has stepped back from such efforts.
Why it matters: According to state tracking data, mosquito populations are surging, and at least one resident is pleading with the city to reinstate the municipal program.
Catch up quick: The City Council eliminated regular spraying this year to save roughly $300,000, with city staff noting the program could be reinstated if public health concerns arise.
- Des Moines completed its single planned aerial larvicide application in May, and no additional spraying is currently scheduled.
Driving the news: The Iowa Mosquito Surveillance Program at Iowa State University found that mosquito populations across the state in recent weeks have been more than 10 times higher than the same period last year…