Mosquito Spraying Underway In Medford

MEDFORD, MA — The East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project will conduct aerial spraying of the biological larvicide Bti to control mosquito larvae over large wetland areas in Medford. Application will take place by helicopter from April 22-26.

Wetlands are located in parts of Silver Mine Hill, Bellevue Pond tributary and north of Medford High School. Residents do not need to take any special precautions during spraying.

Bti is a natural bacterium found in soil, according to the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project. The EPA classifies it as a relatively non-toxic pesticide, and it solely affects mosquito larvae and a few related aquatic insects in the fly family.

Once applied, Bti stays suspended in the water for 1-2 days and biodegrades as it settles to the bottom. For further information, contact the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project at 781-899-5730.