Base schedules aerial spraying of mosquito breeding areas Published May 4, 2009 By TSgt Lester W. Nicholas 319th Civil Engineering Squadron GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Base officials are working with the 757th Airlift Squadron from Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, to coordinate an aerial mosquito control spray mission. The spray team, which uses a C-130 Hercules aircraft equipped with a $2 million spray system, is scheduled to conduct aerial spraying over the base starting Tuesday, May 12, 2009. The C-130 aircraft will make low passes at an altitude between 100-150 feet. The purpose of the spraying mission is to lower the number of irritations and infections associated with mosquito bites as well as minimize the threat of West Nile Virus. Spraying will commence at about 6:00 a.m. and normally will conclude within a few hours after the start of the operations. The current mission plan indicates there will be spraying at this time from May 12 through May 15. In the event of inclement weather or high winds, spraying will be postponed to a later time during the same day or the next day. Additionally, the aerial spray mission may be cancelled if mosquito larva counts, conducted by Military Public Health, do not warrant aerial application. The spray is not harmful to humans, animal or crops; however it is recommended that base occupants remain indoors during the aerial spraying. The spray will not affect parklands, wetlands, farmlands and wild or scenic areas. Direct all questions to the CE Pest Management shop at 747-4289.