138 - Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability in Black Fly Control: Implementation of a Bulk Container Treatment System

Abstract: Effective management of Black Fly populations in Minnesota’s large rivers is crucial for public health and recreational enjoyment. Traditional treatment methods using 2.5-gallon containers of liquid Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) have proven labor-intensive and environmentally burdensome due to significant plastic waste. This presentation focuses on the transition to a bulk container treatment system, developed in collaboration with Valent BioSciences, aimed at improving operational efficiency and sustainability in Black Fly management. The new bulk system, designed to fit within a pickup truck bed and in a boat, enables streamlined application across extensive river systems. This innovation reduces the frequency of staff trips and minimizes the handling of individual containers, resulting in a more efficient treatment process. Initial assessments indicate a substantial decrease in the hours required for treatment operations, allowing staff to reallocate resources to other critical tasks. The bulk system has also significantly reduced plastic waste, promoting a more sustainable approach to pest control. The implementation of the bulk container treatment system marks a significant advancement in enhancing both efficiency and sustainability in Black Fly management. By minimizing waste and optimizing resource use, this approach not only boosts operational effectiveness but also aligns with broader environmental goals.