Air Force Reserve unit returns to Homestead to assist with mosquito abatement

  • Published
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  An aerial mosquito abatement program will take place in various areas across Southern Miami-Dade County Aug. 26-28.

Some residents may remember seeing the large, specially equipped C-130H cargo aircraft spraying in July. The cargo aircraft has returned to spray because County Mosquito Control has determined mosquito numbers around Homestead Air Reserve Base and surrounding communities have reached significant levels.

C-130H cargo planes from the Air Force Reserve Command's 910th Airlift Wing in Youngstown, Ohio, will perform the aerial spraying operation using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered pesticide Dibrom, also known as Naled. Naled is registered for use in Florida.

Adult mosquito control will occur during the final two daylight hours prior to sunset and up to 30 minutes after sunset. Residents should be alert and expect to see the large 4-engine propeller aircraft during this period flying at or above 150 feet ground-level during the actual spraying application.

The amount of insecticide applied should not affect people or animals. Beekeepers are asked to keep their bees covered during the spraying operations in their particular area.

Concerned citizens should contact the Miami-Dade County at 311. They may also contact the 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office at (786) 415-7330 or email: 482FW.PA@us.af.mil.