A drone similar to this one will be used by Lake County Vector Control for treatments in March 2025.


LAKEPORT, Calif. — To prevent a surge of biting mosquitoes this spring, the Lake County Vector Control District said it will conduct a targeted aerial treatment of marshlands near Clear Lake.

Starting Monday, March 10, weather permitting, a black and white drone, about 6 to 8 feet wide, will fly low over areas between Clear Lake State Park and Lakeport, including parts of S-Bar-S Ranch, Scotts Valley, Lyons Creek, Bridge Arbor and Upper Lake.

Residents in these areas may see or hear the drone during daylight hours.

Why is this happening?

The district's winter monitoring found a large number of mosquito larvae in these wetlands.

These larvae, a type called Aedes increpitus, hatch from eggs laid in the mud and are known for their aggressive biting in the spring.

What is being used?

The district will use VectoPrime FG, a safe and effective biological larvicide. It contains a natural soil bacterium (Bti) and (S)-methoprene, which target mosquito larvae without harming fish, plants, animals, or other insects. The product is applied as granules, minimizing drift.

Is it safe?

The Environmental Protection Agency has approved VectoPrime FG. It breaks down quickly in nature, leaving no lasting residue. The District prioritizes using the safest products available.

Where can I find more information?

For the treatment date and any changes, visit the District's website: www.lcvcd.org.

To request the VectoPrime FG product label or Safety Data Sheet, or SDS, visit the website or call 707-263-4770.

For more information on West Nile virus, visit: http://westnile.ca.gov/. 

For mosquito repellent information, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/faq/repellent.html. 

This drone treatment follows a larger aerial treatment with a crop duster plane on Feb. 25, designed to target wider areas. Both methods help reduce the need for adult mosquito control later.