DEM to conduct aerial assault on mosquito larvae

Larvicide treatment will target 3,000 acres of Rhode Island wetlands

The first round of treatments will begin in late August

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) announced today that they will be conducting an aerial larvicide treatment to control mosquito populations in the state.

The treatment will target approximately 3,000 acres of wetlands in 10 Rhode Island communities, including: Barrington, Bristol, Charlestown, Coventry, East Greenwich, Jamestown, Little Compton, Middletown, Portsmouth, and Tiverton.

The first round of treatments will begin in late August and will continue through the end of September. Additional treatments may be conducted as needed.

The larvicide that will be used, VectoBac® GS, is a naturally occurring bacteria that is specifically toxic to mosquito larvae. It is not harmful to humans, animals, or the environment.

• The DEM will be using a helicopter to apply the larvicide.
• The helicopter will fly over the target areas at an altitude of approximately 100 feet.
• The larvicide will be applied in a granular form.

The DEM and RIDOH are urging residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites, including:

• Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
• Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Eliminating standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can breed.

For more information on mosquito control in Rhode Island, please visit the DEM's website.