162 - Where to house mosquito control? Advantages and Disadvantages of independent versus dependent mosquito control programs

Abstract: Mosquito control programs in the U.S. are organized in a multitude of ways to meet ecological, political, and funding circumstances. Other than the regulations set for by the Federal Insecticide Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), each state serves as a legal authority by overseeing mosquito control functions which are organized by agencies at the state, county, and city levels. These agencies are typically organized into either fully independent mosquito abatement districts or dependent programs located within departments that include but are not limited to public works or local health departments. In addition, some municipalities without local programs employ private contractors to manage mosquitoes in their jurisdictions. This presentation will provide an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of independent versus dependent programs in the United States.