There’s a helicopter spraying pesticides in Manatee County for mosquito control. Is it safe?
Yes.
Spraying pesticides over largely-populated areas is safe, according to Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.
Christopher Lesser, director of the Manatee County Mosquito Control District, said the county uses EPA-registered pesticides for aerial mosquito control such as malathion, which is safe to apply 1 to 3 fluid ounces per acre. Being EPA-registered means the sprays pose “no real risk” to humans, nature or wildlife when guidelines are followed. The spray releases from the aircraft as extremely small droplets and is designed to stay airborne as long as possible to kill mosquitoes on contact, according to the EPA.
The most recent spray in Manatee County occurred on June 10, following an outbreak of mosquitoes after heavy local rains.
Mosquito control is mandated by law since the insect is considered a threat to public health and quality of life. Other methods for control include removing mosquito habitats or targeting them before they become adults.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Has Sarasota County lifted its burn ban as of mid-June 2025?
Yes.
Sarasota County’s burn ban was lifted June 6 after the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) fell below 500 for seven consecutive days.
As of June 10, the County’s KBDI was 300 to 399, and the Drought Severity and Coverage Index was 300.
The ban was put in place on Mar. 26 due to severe drought conditions. Residents couldn’t start open fires of any kind during this period.
There were exceptions to the ban, such as public fireworks rendered by permitted pyrotechnic contractors, most barbeque grill/pit use, and any activity that was an exception under Sarasota County Code, Sec. 54-116.
An increase in rainfall may have contributed to the KBDI decrease. Sarasota County saw 4.23 inches of rain from June 1-7.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
