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Spatial Analysis of the Impact of “Do Not Spray” Areas on Mosquito Adulticiding in the Suburbs of Northwest Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Mosquito adulticides are tools to manage populations and reduce human disease risks. We examined the spatial impact of policies that affect the ability to conduct adult mosquito control. We used the Northwest Mosquito Abatement District (NWMAD) to illustrate how various constraints can impact vector control. Almost 12.7% of the 233 mi2 covered by NWMAD is owned by the Forest Preserve District (FPD) or has been designated as a Nature Preserve Area (NPA). Pesticide application is prohibited in both FPDs and NPAs. Additionally, NWMAD allows residents to opt out of having their property parcel sprayed for mosquitoes by being placed on a "do not spray" (DNS) list. As of February 2019, 162 residential and beehive parcels encompassing 1,059.2 acres are listed. As a result of this policy, 2,686 residential and beehive parcels (1.3% of all parcels) received reduced or no mosquito adulticide sprays in 2018. These parcels were distributed unevenly across the district's eight townships, with approximately 90% of residential DNS acreage in two townships. Nearly 14% of all NWMAD acreage is exempt from treatment, which could affect the ability to respond effectively to disease outbreaks.

Authors

  • Patrick Irwin, PhD, Northwest Mosquito Abatement District, University of Wisconsin–Madison
  • Dan Bartlett, Northwest Mosquito Abatement District
  • Kristina Lopez, University of Wisconsin–Madison
Volume#: 84.9
Page #: 22-28
Publication Month: May 2022

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