Arbovirus Surveillance and 

Mosquito Control in Idaho 

Guidance for Counties 

Version 10.3 

 Print Date: 3/14/2003 
 

Table of Contents 

Mosquito Abatement 

A. Mosquito facts and mosquito control 

myths...................................3A–1 

B. Idaho abatement district list and 

map.............................................3B–1 

C. Idaho statutes regarding the formation and operation of a 

mosquito abatement 

district.........................................................3C–1 

39-2801. AUTHORIZATION TO FORM ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2802. 

PROCEDURES FOR FORMATION OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2803. 

SELECTION OF OFFICIALS OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2804. 

POWERS AND DUTIES OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2805. METHOD 

OF FINANCING ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2806. ANNEXATION TO 

ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 39-2807. CONSOLIDATION OF ABATEMENT 

DISTRICTS 39-2808. EXISTING RIGHTS PRESERVED 39-2809. SHORT 

TITLE 39-2810. WITHDRAWAL 39-2811. HEARING OF PETITION FOR 

WITHDRAWAL 

25-2601-2613 series: AGRICULTURAL PEST STATUTES discussed 

D. General legal principles of mosquito abatement in Idaho 

..............3D–1 

E. Model standard operating procedures for mosquito abatement 

districts in Idaho............................................................3E–1 

F. Model arbovirus surveillance and response guide for mosquito 

abatement districts in 

Idaho............................................................3F–1 

G. Estimated start-up and operational costs for mosquito abatement 

districts..........................................................................3G–1 

H. Special considerations for pesticide application and other control 

methods..............................................................3H–1 

I. Frequently asked questions from areas lacking an abatement 

district........................................................................3I–1 

4. Appendices 

A. Glossary of terms............................................................................ 

4A–1 

B. Agency 

contacts..............................................................................4B–1 
C. DEQ aquatic pesticide application 

rule...........................................4C–1 

D. Larvicides and safety 

issues...........................................................4D–1 

E. Adulticides and safety 

issues..........................................................4E–1 

F. Training required prior to pesticide application .............................. 

4F–1 

G. Example of an existing abatement district operational 

plan:..........4G–1 The Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District 

Emergency Plan 
 

 Mosquito Abatement 

A. Mosquito facts and mosquito control myths 

B. Idaho abatement district list and map 

C. Idaho statutes regarding the formation and operation 

of an abatement district 

D. General legal principles of mosquito abatement in 

Idaho 

E. Model standard operating procedures for mosquito 

abatement districts 

F. Model arbovirus surveillance and response guide 

for mosquito abatement districts 

G. Estimated start-up costs 

H. Special considerations for pesticide application and 

other control methods 

I. Frequently asked questions from areas lacking 

an abatement district 
A. Mosquito facts and mosquito control myths 

I. Mosquito facts 

• Mosquito abatement programs are necessary because 

mosquito bites: 

may cause — 

Mosquito-borne diseases 

Allergic reactions 

Annoyance 

reduce — 

Human productivity due to health issues 

Outdoor enjoyment and recreation 

Real estate and tourism revenues 

Weight gain in livestock 

Milk production in dairy cattle 

Livestock reproduction and survival 

Wildlife populations 

 There are approximately 3,000 different species of mosquitoes 

throughout the world, of which 170 to 200 species occur in the United 

States. Approximately 25-30 species are found in Idaho. 

 Mosquitoes need a standing water source to develop. Any standing 

water source such as a marsh, pond, creek, or lake, ditch, canal, storm 

water retention pond, flooded field, uncovered boat, discarded tire, 

swimming pool, or birdbath will allow mosquitoes to breed. 

 Female mosquitoes bite because a blood meal is required for egg 

production. Only female mosquitoes bite. 

 Female mosquitoes can take multiple blood meals and produce 

multiple generations during a single mosquito season. Under optimal 

conditions, a female Culex mosquito will lay 200 to 400 eggs every three 

days. 

 Most eggs hatch into mosquito larvae within 24 - 48 hours. 

 Only one male is required to fertilize a lifetime of egg production in 

the female. 

 Mosquitoes generally live one to two months. Culex species may 

over winter and survive for up to a year. 

 Mosquitoes often fly fifteen or more miles in a single night. 

 II. Mosquito control myths (control options that don't seem 

effective) 

 Sound and electric devices — these have no repellency effects and 

units are sold with no documented test results. 

 Citronella (plants and candles) — there is no data to support the 

claim that citronella is a good mosquito repellant; its pleasant odor does 

not guarantee results. 
 Skin moisturizing oil — field tests do not support claims that certain 

skin oils will repel mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are 30 times more sensitive to 

DEET than to skin moisturizers. 

 Bug zappers — mosquitoes actually comprise less than 5% of the 

total bug zapper catch. The zappers kill many beneficial insects and tend 

to attract more insects than they kill. 

 Birds — ornithologists state that purple martins and other swallowlike birds do not prefer mosquitoes and that mosquitoes make up less than 

3% of their diets. 

 Bats — insectivorous bat diets consist mainly of beetles, wasps, 

ants, flies, stoneflies, mayflies, moths and grasshoppers. Mosquitoes 

make up less than 1% of their diet. Location of bat houses should also 

take into consideration that bats sometimes carry rabies. Separation of bat 

houses from human populations is a good practice. 

 

 B. Idaho Mosquito Abatement Districts (9/17/2002) 

Bear River Mosquito Abatement District 

Ron Peterson, Manager 

327 Jefferson Street Montpelier, Idaho 83254 

Phone: 208-847-0545 

E-mail: ctp@dcdi.net 

Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District 

Brian Benner, Director 721 E. Roosevelt Avenue 

Nampa, Idaho, 83686 

Phone: 208-461-8633 or 208-871-1860 

E-mail: ccmad@att.net 

Custer County Mosquito Abatement District 

Scott Johnson, Secretary - Treasurer 

Star Route 

Mackay, Idaho 83251 

Phone 208-588-3072 

 

Fairfield Mosquito Abatement District 

Cathy Miller, Manager 

P.O. Box 1 

Fairfield, Idaho 83327 

Phone: 208-764-3202 

E-mail: cmiller06@fs.fed.us 

Fremont County Mosquito Abatement District 

Woody Andersen, Supt. of Public Works 

110 West Main 

St. Anthony, Idaho 83445 

Phone: 208-624-3494 

E-mail: stacity@fretel.com 

Gem County Mosquito Abatement District 

Terri Quenzer, Secretary 

Quinn Nuffer, Manager 
526 West 3rd

 Street 

Emmett, Idaho 83617 

Phone: 208-365-5628 

E-mail: gcmad@earthlink.net 

Emmett County Golf Association, Inc. 

Dave Watkins, Manager 

6846 West Highway 52 

Emmett, Idaho 83617 

Phone: 208-365-2675 

 

Jefferson County Mosquito Abatement District. 

Reed Williams, Manager 

167 South Third West 

Rigby, Idaho 83442 

Phone: 208-538-7778(day), 208-745-8424 

E-mail: rwilliams@mascot.sd252.k12.id.us 

Mackay Mosquito District - Custer County 

Jack Anderson, Secretary 

410 E. Custer Street 

Mackay, Idaho 83251 

Phone: 208-588-2438 (h) 

E-mail: jckandrsn7@aol.com 

Madison County Mosquito Abatement District 

Wendell Roth, Manager 

750 North 1500 West 

Rexberg, Idaho 83440 

Phone: 208-356-3102 (cell) 208-390-3102 

E-mail: tinker51@fretel.com 

The City of Menan 

Lyn Jacobson, Maintenance Supt. 

Menan, Idaho 83434 

Phone: 754-0438 (h) or 520-4369 (cell) 

Roberts Mosquito Abatement District 

Tom Buxton, Chairman 

2898 East 800 North 

Roberts, Idaho 83444 

Phone 208-228-6851 

E-mail: tbuxton@ida.net 

Ada County Mosquito Abatement 

Jack Bennett, Field Operations Manager

975 East Pine

Meridian, Idaho 83642

Phone 208-577-4646 or (cell) 208-869-7482 

E-mail: jbennett@adaweb.net
Map of Idaho Mosquito Abatement Districts (2/22/03) 
C. Idaho statutes regarding formation and operation 

of a mosquito abatement district. 

Title 39, Chapter 28-01-11 (see following pages for text) 

39-2801. AUTHORIZATION TO FORM ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2802. PROCEDURES FOR FORMATION OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2803. SELECTION OF OFFICIALS OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2804. POWERS AND DUTIES OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2805. METHOD OF FINANCING ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2806. ANNEXATION TO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2807. CONSOLIDATION OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2808. EXISTING RIGHTS PRESERVED 

39-2809. SHORT TITLE 

39-2810. WITHDRAWAL 

39-2811. HEARING OF PETITION FOR WITHDRAWAL 
Title 39, Chapter 28-01-11

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2801. AUTHORIZATION TO FORM ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. There may be 

formed, under the provisions of this act, districts for the abatement of 

mosquitoes and/or other vermin of public health importance, in any area 

of the state from territory of one or more counties, one or more cities 

or towns, or any combination or portion thereof. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2802. PROCEDURES FOR FORMATION OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. Upon 

presentation to the board of county commissioners of a petition 

requesting the formation of an abatement district, which is signed by 

qualified resident property owners of the territory of the proposed 

abatement district, equal to not less than ten percent (10%) of the 

resident property owners that voted in the last general election, the 

commissioners shall publish such petition when the following conditions 

are met: the petition must define the boundaries of the proposed district 

and assessed tax valuation of the property therein. When the above 

conditions have been met the county commissioners shall publish the 

petition, and if after thirty (30) days no protests are received, an 

election must be held at the next date specified in section 34-106, Idaho 

Code. The petitioners shall bear the expense of holding the election. If 

there are written protests, the county commissioners must hold a public 

hearing within thirty (30) days after receipt of the written protests and 

after the hearing hold an election. Notice of the time and place of such 

election shall be published at least once not less than twelve (12) days 

prior to the election and a second time not less than five (5) days prior 

to the election in at least one (1) newspaper having general circulation 

in the proposed abatement district. Only qualified electors who own land 

within the district, or the proposed district, and are residents of the 

county in which the district, or a portion thereof, is located, or are 

spouses of such landowners residing in such county, may vote on the 

formation of the district. A majority of the votes cast will establish 

the district. 

 

TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2803. SELECTION OF OFFICIALS OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. A five (5) 

member board of trustees shall be appointed from within the area of the 

proposed abatement district to govern the abatement district. The 

trustees appointed shall at the first meeting of each year elect a 

president, secretary and treasurer to serve during the ensuing year. The 

officers of the board shall be bonded to the extent of five hundred 

dollars ($500) to five thousand dollars ($5,000) each as set by the 

county commissioners. The members of the board shall be appointed by the 

county commissioners of the county which they are to represent. When two 

(2) or more counties or portions thereof comprise an abatement district, 

the selection of trustees will be made by mutual agreement of the county 

commissioners concerned. Each trustee shall be a resident property owner 

and a registered voter. Trustees shall be appointed for four (4) years on 

staggered appointments. To initiate the board two (2) members are 

appointed for two (2) years, one (1) for three (3) years and two (2) for 

four (4) years. Subsequent appointments shall be for four (4) years. 

Trustees shall serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for 

necessary expenses involved with the performance of their official 

duties. The county health officer and the county agent shall be ex 

officio members of the board. Whenever two (2) or more counties or 
portions thereof are included in the district, the health officer and 

county agent for each county shall be ex officio members of the board. 

The [directors or] heads of the following state departments or their 

designated representatives shall be considered ex officio members of the 

board and may be called upon for their advice and assistance in the 

handling of abatement problems affecting their direct interests: 

agriculture, fish and game, lands, transportation, water resources and 

health and welfare. 

TITLE 39 

HEALTH AND SAFETY 

CHAPTER 28 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT 

DISTRICTS 

39-2804. POWERS AND DUTIES OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. 

The abatement district board of trustees is authorized: 

 a. To appoint a director to direct the activities of the 

district, in accordance with training and experience necessary to fulfill 

the duties of the position. 

 b. To appoint such other persons as necessary, determine their 

duties and compensation, and make rules and regulations respecting them. 

 c. To take all necessary and proper steps for the control of 

mosquitoes and other vermin of public health importance in the district 

and for these purposes shall have the right to enter upon any and all 

lands. 

 d. To sue and be sued. 

 e. Contract to purchase, hold, dispose of, and acquire by gift 

real and personal property in the name of the district. To exercise the 

right of eminent domain and for these purposes to condemn any necessary 

land and/or rights of way in accordance with general law. 

 f. To abate as nuisance breeding places of mosquitoes and/or 

other vermin of public health importance within the district or within 

migrating distance of the district by use of chemicals and/or permanent 

control measures and in this connection have the right to enter upon any 

and all lands. 

 g. To work with the lateral ditch water users associations, 

irrigation, drainage and flood control districts and other cooperating 

organizations. The board of trustees of the abatement district may 

supplement funds of cooperating organizations for improvement, repair, 

maintenance and cleaning of ditches which will temporarily or permanently 

eliminate mosquito breeding or for other activities which will benefit 

the district. 

 h. To file annually with the board of county commissioners for 

their approval an estimate of funds required for the next year, a plan of 

the work to be done, and methods to be employed. No procedure, work or 

contract for any year of operation shall be done or entered upon until 

plans and budget have been jointly approved by the board of county 

commissioners. 

 i. To file, annually or by February 1 of the succeeding year, 

with the board of county commissioners a report setting forth the moneys 

expended during the previous year, methods employed, and work 

accomplishments. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2805. METHOD OF FINANCING ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. The board of county 

commissioners must levy upon taxable property within the district a tax 

at a rate not greater than sufficient to raise the amount determined by 

the board of trustees as approved by the board of county commissioners, 

as necessary for the operation of the district for the ensuing year. In 

no event shall such tax exceed one tenth percent (.1%) of the market 

value for assessment purposes on all taxable property within the 

district. All taxes thus levied shall be collected in the same manner as 

other taxes and deposited to the credit of the abatement district and 
shall be used for no other purposes. Such funds may be withdrawn from the 

county treasury and upon warrant of the board of trustees of the 

abatement district, signed by the president of the board and 

countersigned by its secretary, for the activities of the abatement 

district. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2806. ANNEXATION TO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. Contiguous territories may 

be annexed to organized mosquito abatement districts upon petition of a 

majority of the legal voters in the territory seeking annexation and of 

the owners of more than half, by assessed value, of the taxable property 

in such territory, or by written request for annexation of a designated 

area, submitted to the trustees of the existing mosquito abatement 

district and signed by all members of the board of county commissioners 

in which county the territory seeking annexation is located. Upon 

receiving this petition or written request, the trustees of the existing 

mosquito abatement district must submit the question of annexation to the 

legal voters of the district at an election held subject to the 

provisions of section 34-106, Idaho Code. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2807. CONSOLIDATION OF ABATEMENT DISTRICTS. Two (2) or more 

contiguous districts may be consolidated. Any district board of trustees 

may seek consolidation by adoption of a resolution by a majority vote of 

its members. Consolidation is accomplished by a majority vote of the 

members of each of the boards of trustees involved in the consolidation. 

The consolidated districts may enter into arrangements for pooling funds 

and joint use of personnel, equipment, and supplies. The activities 

conducted under joint arrangement shall be considered as if conducted 

directly by the board having jurisdiction over the area concerned. The 

board of county commissioners must be given written notice of 

consolidation. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2808. EXISTING RIGHTS PRESERVED. It is the purpose of this act to 

provide additional and cumulative remedies to prevent, abate and control 

the spread of mosquitoes and/or other vermin affecting the public 

health, safety and welfare of the people of the state of Idaho. Nothing 

herein contained shall be construed to abridge or alter rights of action 

or remedies in equity or under the common law or statutory law, criminal 

or civil, nor shall any provision of this act, or an act done by virtue 

thereof, be construed as stopping the state or any municipality or 

person in the exercise of their rights of equity or under the common law 

or statutory law to suppress or abate nuisances. 

TITLE 39 

HEALTH AND SAFETY 

CHAPTER 28 

MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

39-2809. SHORT TITLE. This act may be cited as the Idaho Mosquito 

Abatement Act. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 
 39-2810. WITHDRAWAL. Any portion of a mosquito abatement district 

which will not be reasonably benefited by remaining within such 

district may be withdrawn as in this section provided. Upon 

receiving a petition signed by fifty (50) or more landowners within 

the portion desired to be withdrawn from any mosquito abatement 

district, or by a majority of such landowners, if there are less 

than one hundred (100) landowners within the portion sought to be 

withdrawn, requesting the withdrawal of such portion from the 

district on the ground that such portion will not be reasonably 

benefited by remaining in said district, the board of county 

commissioners shall fix a time for hearing on such petition and for 

hearing protests to the continuance of the remaining territory as a 

mosquito abatement district. The hearing shall not be less than ten 

(10) days nor more than thirty (30) days after the receipt thereof. 

The board shall, at least one (1) week prior to the time so fixed, 

publish notice of such hearing by one (1) publication in a newspaper 

of general circulation in the district, which the board deems most 

likely to give notice to the inhabitants thereof, of the proposed 

withdrawal. 

 TITLE 39 

 HEALTH AND SAFETY 

 CHAPTER 28 

 MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

 39-2811. HEARING OF PETITION FOR WITHDRAWAL. Any person interested 

may appear at the hearing and object to the withdrawal of the portion 

from the district, or may object to the continuance of the remaining 

territory as a mosquito abatement district. The board of county 

commissioners shall consider all objections and shall pass upon the 

same, and if it finds that portion of the district sought to be 

withdrawn will not be reasonably benefited by remaining within the 

district, and the territory not sought to be withdrawn will be 

reasonably benefited by continuing as a mosquito abatement district, 

it shall grant the petition and enter an order thereon upon its 

records. In the event the board finds the district will not be 

reasonably benefited by continuing as a mosquito abatement district, 

it shall enter an order upon its records completely dissolving and 

terminating the previously existing mosquito abatement district. Upon 

the withdrawal of any territory from a mosquito abatement district, 

as in this section provided, all property acquired for the district 

shall remain vested in the county and be used for the purposes of the 

district. Upon complete dissolution of a mosquito abatement district 

as herein provided, all property acquired for the district shall 

remain vested in the county and be used for any general purpose of 

the county. 

 

Other related statutes: Agricultural Pest Statutes (Title 25, Chapters 

2601-2613): The Animal Pest statutes appear to control animals and 

insects that would be more appropriately categorized as 

predatory. The mosquito abatement statutes listed above directly address 

the issue of mosquito abatement. Mosquito abatement and the means used to 

carry those activities out should remain governed by abatement statutes. 

The formation of abatement districts following the mosquito abatement 

statutes should be encouraged. 

 TITLE 25 

 ANIMALS 

 CHAPTER 26 

 EXTERMINATION OF WILD ANIMALS 

 AND PESTS IN COUNTIES 

 25-2601. CONTROL OF PESTS -- POWERS OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. The 

board of county commissioners of each and every county of this state 

are all hereby granted full power and authority to declare any 

predatory animal, including coyote, that feeds upon, preys upon or 

destroys any poultry or livestock of any kind upon any public or 

private lands within their respective counties, or any rodent, jack-
rabbit, gopher, ground squirrel, cricket, locust, grasshopper and 

other insect pests or plant disease causing organisms/agents or any 

other invertebrate organism that feeds, preys upon, or destroys any 

livestock, natural grasses, or cultivated crops of any kind upon any 

public or private lands within their respective counties, to be 

agricultural pests, and to take all steps that they may deem 

necessary to control such pests. 
D. General legal principles of mosquito abatement in Idaho 

Letter from the State of Idaho Office of the Attorney General 

addressing questions from Senator Brad Little (11/6/02). Please click 

here. 
E. Model standard operating procedures for mosquito 

abatement districts in Idaho. (See the following pages.) 
MODEL 

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES* 

FOR MOSQUITO 

ABATEMENT DISTRICTS 

IN IDAHO 

*All mosquito abatement districts in Idaho are required 

by law (Idaho Statue Title 39, Chapter 28-04) 

to develop an annual plan for standard operations. 

This document outlines the basic activities carried out by abatement 

districts according to the nationally recognized integrated pest 

management model. 

This is not meant to be a complete text on mosquito abatement activities. 

For more information, visit the following websites: 

American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) 

http://www.mosquito.org/

Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control Association 

http://www.nwmvca.org/ 
Contents 

I. Function and scope of mosquito districts 

II. Surveillance and Monitoring 

Identify adult mosquito species Survey and map mosquito breeding 

habitat (source) Evaluate mosquito larvae density in breeding sites 

Determine level of adult mosquito activity Test adult mosquitoes for 

the presence of virus. 

III. Prevention 

Source reduction, modification and elimination Larvicide 

application in mosquito breeding habitats 

IV. Intervention 

Adult mosquito reduction 

V. Threshold determinations for abatement activities 
Model Standard Operating Procedures 

I. Function and Scope of Mosquito Abatement Districts (MADs) 

Mosquitoes have both positive and negative impacts on the 

environment. Mosquitoes provide a food source for fish and other 

aquatic organisms. They are also food for bats, birds, spiders, and 

dragonflies. However, they transmit pathogens that cause many 

harmful mosquito-borne diseases worldwide, including malaria, 

encephalitis, yellow fever, dengue fever and the latest mosquito-borne 

virus to reach the USA, West Nile virus. 

Each MADs primary function is to protect the public’s health and 

safety from mosquito-borne diseases. Additionally, as public health 

protection is fulfilled MAD programs reduce pest mosquito 

populations. Successful abatement programs improve the quality of 

life, promote economic development, and facilitate enjoyment of 

natural and man-made attractions. In order for a MAD to be effective 

in its functions, it must implement necessary integrated control 

measures over a large area. 

MADs may consider different levels of activity to perform these 

functions. The level considered may change with local conditions and 

vector activity. Activity levels can be passive, proactive, or active, as 

outlined below. 

a. Passive 

 — Control areas proposed 

 — Staff identified and equipment available to respond to known 

outbreak 

 b. Proactive 

 — Control areas defined 

 — Adequate staff and equipment to implement control plan 

 — Educational elements in place 

 — Surveillance and species identification activities ongoing 

 — Good reporting and planning functions operational 

 — Establish mutual aid or cooperative agreements with other 

agencies or jurisdictions. 

 c. Active 

 — Control areas defined 

 — Adequate staff and equipment to implement control plan 

 — Good reporting and planning functions operational 

In addition, MADs may consider no or minimal action when mosquitoes 

do not represent a vector-borne disease threat in the district. 

 

II. Surveillance / Monitoring 

a. Mosquito Trapping and Identification 

In order to determine where specific mosquito species exist in a 

particular area of Idaho, it is necessary to trap and identify them. Once 
they are identified, the level of risk for disease can be better 

understood. Some mosquitoes are only pests not capable of 

transmitting disease, while others are both pests and disease vectors. 

As of this printing, CO2-baited traps are the preferred method for 

collecting biting female mosquitoes. These traps are typically set one 

or two separate nights per week for a 12-14 hour period during the 

calendar months of April through October. This time frame may vary 

depending on the occurrence of winter frosts (when mosquito activity 

diminishes). The trap collections are picked up the next day. 

Mosquitoes are then sent to the state public health laboratory for 

evaluation (unless the abatement district has a trained entomologist). 

Mosquitoes are identified under the microscope by genus and species. 

Mosquitoes are pooled into vials by similar species, date and collection 

location. The resulting data will be maintained in a master database at 

the state public health laboratory and a copy will also be returned to the 

submitting agency for recording and evaluation. This data will help 

determine what control measures are warranted (mosquito abatement, 

source reduction, etc.) 

b. Surveillance for mosquito breeding habitats 

The most effective method of mosquito control is the reduction, 

modification, or elimination of mosquito breeding source habitats. This 

form of control cannot be accomplished in many cases due to legal, 

fiscal and environmental constraints. Mapping mosquito breeding 

habitat locations can help with source reduction activities and 

strategically pinpoint target areas for community education efforts 

and/or insecticide application. Breeding habitats should be identified, 

described, mapped (ideally by GPS coordinates) and cataloged. 

c. Monitoring for larvae 

Timely inspections and evaluations of mosquito larvae populations in 

aquatic habitats by dip-collection is a key tool to determine the 

mosquito growth phase and numbers. As mosquito larvae threshold 

densities approach threshold values, mosquito management activities 

are applied to the breeding habitats to prevent the larvae from 

becoming biting adults (see prevention and threshold determinations 

below). 

d. Mosquito landing rates 

Surveillance of the adult mosquito landing rates permits excellent 

evaluation of the prevalence of mosquitoes within residential areas. 

Mosquito landing rates are determined best during crepuscular periods 

(two hours after sunset or two hours prior to sunrise). The surveyor 

should wear dark colored clothing and sit or stand quietly for a few 

minutes, collecting mosquitoes with an aspirator as they land on his or 

her clothing. The required equipment for this type of surveillance is a 

battery-operated or simple mouth-suction aspirator. The collected 

mosquitoes are taken back to the district work area for identification 

and control measures are determined. A modification of the landing 
rate is the mosquito-biting (or "light and bite") rate, in which the 

mosquito is not aspirated until it bites the surveyor. This method is not 

recommended in areas where mosquito-borne virus occurs. 

e. Monitoring for virus 

Typically mosquitoes are collected in traps (as described above) 

from April through October and pooled by species, date, and 

location. Mosquito pools are tested for the presence of arboviruses 

at the Idaho State Bureau of Laboratories in Boise, Idaho. Test 

results are maintained by the state Office of Epidemiology in the 

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Copies are furnished to the 

submitting agency and the corresponding district health department. 

III. Prevention 

Mosquito control is important because it reduces the number of flying 

adult mosquitoes, thereby reducing the risk of mosquito-borne virus 

transmission to humans and animals. 

a. Eliminating or modifying mosquito breeding habitats 

The elimination or modification of mosquito breeding habitat, when 

feasible and within regulations, is a critical component and the best 

long-term solution for mosquito control. These activities include 

avoiding over watering in public and private areas, draining and/or 

filling of areas of shallow stagnant water, increasing flow rates in 

irrigation and drainage canals, eliminating water holding containers 

and reducing and/or eliminating vegetation in slack or stagnant water 

which supports mosquito breeding. Most of these activities can be 

achieved through cooperative agreements with other agencies and 

political subdivisions, and by the use of public education campaigns. 

b. Abatement of mosquito larvae in their aquatic habitats 

Mosquito larvicide applications selectively target mosquito larvae and 

are effective in reducing mosquito populations. This type of mosquito 

control measure requires considerable personnel, equipment, 

materials, planning, mosquito survey work and expense. These types 

of applications offer the most selective chemical control of mosquitoes. 

Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) and Bacillus sphaericus (Bs) are 

applied to mosquito breeding habitats when mosquito larvae are found 

in the 1st

 to 3rd instar stage of life. Aquatic sites can fall under one of 

many different jurisdictions, each of which may have limitations to 

insecticide usage. Please refer to the “Special considerations for 

pesticide applications and other control methods” section of this plan 

prior to the use of any insecticide. 

IV. Adult mosquito intervention This method should be considered when 

rapid reduction in adult mosquito populations is warranted. 

The ultra low volume (ULV) adulticide spray method is typically used 

where mosquito trapping, landing or biting rate counts, and verifiable 

complaints from MAD constituents indicate the presence of flying 
adult mosquitoes. 

The current mosquito insecticide (mosquitocide or adulticide) used by 

most MADs is a malathion-based ULV concentrate. This product is a 

non-residual insecticide with excellent efficacy against flying 

mosquitoes. In Idaho much cropland is present and malathion is used 

because it generally does not have cropland restrictions on its label 

directions. Pyrethrin-based products may be used in residential areasavoiding cropland and sensitive aquatic areas according to label 

restrictions. 

ULV spray treatments for flying adult mosquitoes are routinely 

announced publicly at the beginning of the mosquito season. Some 

abatement districts have established a “Call Before Spraying List” for 

those residents who wish to be called prior to ULV spraying in the 

areas in which they live. All ULV treatments are restricted to property 

within the mosquito abatement district's jurisdiction, taking into 

consideration special situations. All treatments must be applied 

according to the insecticide’s label directions and the state 

requirements related to licensure. All treatment equipment is calibrated 

as per the insecticide label directions and certified to be correctly 

operational by the Idaho Department of Agriculture or other recognized 

authority. 

Exceptions to the approved operational plan are reviewed on a caseby-case basis with priority given to emergency health related issues. 

The board of trustees and the county commissioners must approve 

any substantial changes to these operational plans. 

During heightened arbovirus detection, ULV spraying treatments 

will likely increase to reducing the adult mosquito population. 

V. Threshold determinations for abatement activities The intent of the 

mosquito abatement districts is to ensure that applications of 

insecticides are made only when necessary. The threshold factors are: 

 Results of mosquito monitoring (using recognized surveillance 

methods such as larva surveys, traps or landing rates) indicate that a 

threshold is reached (for example, when five or more adult mosquitoes per 

trap or landing period, or three or more larvae in a dip are present) 

 When public complaints and service requests are validated by one 

or more recognized surveillance methods 

 When potential of mosquito-borne disease is imminent in the 

District area 

 When mosquito-borne disease is present 

Please refer to the Model Arbovirus Surveillance and Response Guide in 

the next section. 
F. Idaho model arbovirus surveillance and response guide. 

(See the following pages.) 
IDAHO MODEL 

ARBOVIRUS SURVEILLANCE 

AND RESPONSE GUIDE 

A Phased Response to Arbovirus 

Detection 

This document provides guidance for modifying 

standard operating procedures in response to a suspected or detected 

arbovirus. Please note that this is an addendum to the model standard 

operating procedures may need to be reviewed and approved by your 

County Board of Commissioners as directed by Idaho Code. 
Guidelines for the Phased Response to Arbovirus 

Detection 

The primary mission of the model plan is to protect the public health and 

safety of people in Idaho. The following arbovirus protection provisions for 

mosquito abatement districts are proposed as ideal responses to various 

indicators of virus in the environment. These responses are presented in a 

phased manner with the level of response categorized by perceived risk to 

human health. This response plan itself was modeled after plans adopted 

by many states in the continental United States, and as such, is 

considered consistent with acceptable national practices. 

I. Arbovirus Detection 

Testing of mosquito pools, dead birds, and human samples will be 

conducted at the Idaho State Department of Health and Welfare, Bureau 

of Laboratories. Horse samples will be tested at the Idaho State 

Department of Agriculture, Animal Industries Laboratory. 

II. Phased Response (Risk) Categories

 0: Probability of outbreak in humans — none 

1a: Probability of outbreak in humans — remote 

1b: Probability of outbreak in humans — remote but suspected due to 

 previous activity 

 2: Probability of outbreak in humans — low 

 3: Probability of outbreak in humans — moderate 

 4: Probability of outbreak in humans — high 

5: Probability of outbreak in humans — outbreak in progress 

0 – Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – None 

Definition – Off-season; adult vectors inactive, climate 

unsuitable for breeding. 

Recommended Response — Acquire surveillance and control 

resources necessary to enable emergency response. Initiate 

community outreach and public education programs along with the 

local health district. 

1a – Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – Remote 

Definition – Spring, summer or fall; areas unlikely to have 

arbovirus epizootic during the year based on lack of previous or 

current arbovirus activity in the region. 
Recommended Response – Same as Risk Category 0, plus the 

following: Conduct entomologic survey (inventory and map 

mosquito breeding areas). Conduct community outreach and public 

education. Monitor avian mortality, human encephalitis/meningitis 

and equine surveillance. 

1b – Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – Remote 

Definition – Spring, summer or fall; areas anticipating arbovirus 

epizootic during the year based on previous arbovirus activity in 

the region; no current surveillance findings indicating arbovirus 

epizootic activity in the area. 

Recommended Response – Same as Risk Category 1a, plus the 

following: Do source reduction. Use larvicides at specific sources 

identified by entomologic survey, targeted at amplifying and vector 

species. Maintain avian mortality, vector, and virus surveillance. 

Conduct public education emphasizing source reduction. 

NOTE: ABATEMENT DISTRICTS DO NOT ROUTINELY MAKE 

PESTICIDE 

APPLICATIONS OUTSIDE THEIR DESIGNATED DISTRICT 

BOUNDARIES. 

2 – Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – Low 

Definition – Spring, summer or fall; areas with initial, sporadic, or 

limited arbovirus activity in birds and/or mosquitoes. 

Recommended Response – Response as in Risk Category 1b, plus 

the following: Increase insecticide-based larval control and source 

reduction efforts. Enhance public education emphasizing personal 

protection measures and equine vaccination. Enhance adult 

mosquito surveillance activities such as mosquito trapping and 

testing for virus to further quantify epizootic activity. Target adult 

control efforts to particular locations, when surveillance indicates 

potential for increased human risk. Follow-up to evaluate the 

efficacy of mosquito control activities. 

3 – Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – Moderate 

Definition – Spring, summer or fall; areas with initial confirmation of 
arbovirus in a human and/or horse, or moderate arbovirus activity in 

birds and/or mosquitoes. 

Recommended Response – Same as Risk Category 2, plus the 

following: Increase frequency of surveillance and control activities 

as long as there continues to be the potential for human risk to 

persist or increase. 

4- Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – High 

Definition – Spring, summer or fall; quantitative measures 

indicating arbovirus epizootic activity at a level suggesting high 

risk of human infection (for example, high dead bird densities, 

high mosquito infection rates, multiple positive species, horse or 

mammal cases indicating escalating epizootic transmission, or 

human case and high levels of epizootic activity) and abundant 

adult vectors. 

Recommended Response – Same as Risk Category 3, plus the 

following: Expand public information program to promote personal 

protective measures on television, radio and newspaper. Continue 

source reduction, risk communication about adult mosquito control; 

initiate or continue active surveillance for human cases. Continue 

escalating adult mosquito control and monitoring (efficacy) in target 

areas of potential human risk. 

5- Risk Category 

Probability of outbreak in humans – Outbreak in progress: 

Definition – Multiple confirmed cases in humans; conditions 

favoring continued transmission to humans. 

Recommended Response - Same as Risk Category 4, plus the 

following: Increase risk communication about adult mosquito 

control. Escalate adult mosquito control and monitoring of control 

efficacy in target areas of human risk. 

If outbreak is widespread and covers multiple jurisdictions, activate 

mutual aid and cooperative agreements. 

II. Arbovirus Alerts 

a. Positive test results in mosquitoes or dead birds 

Mosquito and dead bird test results will be reported from the state 

health department to the submitting agency and the affected district 
health department. The general public will be alerted through timely 

press releases. Press releases will encourage individuals to take 

personal protective measures against mosquito bites and to assure 

that horses have been properly vaccinated. 

b. Positive test results in humans or horses 

Each positive laboratory test on a human or a horse will be 

investigated to determine if the individual had traveled to a state 

already experiencing WNV infections or if that infection was acquired 

in Idaho. Formal mosquito abatement districts and local district health 

officials will be provided generalized case information to assist in the 

initiation of increased surveillance and control measures. Due to 

confidentiality issues, press releases will be generated but the 

identity of the person or horse and the exact location will be withheld. 

Information will be relayed in terms of county or district affected. The 

general public will be alerted through timely press releases. Press 

releases will encourage individuals to take personal protective 

measures against mosquito bites and to assure that horses have 

been properly vaccinated. 

 

G. Estimated start-up and operational costs for 

mosquito abatement districts. 

The following estimates are provided for planning purposes only. Some 

of the items may already exist in one of the other county operations 

(such as office or shop space in the weed control or road departments) 

and need not be duplicated. 

The following budget list is not meant to be all-inclusive because different 

areas have different needs or challenges. The list will provide planners 

with the basic elements for the establishment of a mosquito abatement 

program. Please do not total the columns because alternative items have 

been placed in the list to increase the likelihood that all factors will be 

considered, e.g. facility mortgage payment and monthly office rent. Pick 

the items that need to be considered for your operation, expand on that list 

to cover items particular to your planning area, then apply local cost and 

budget factors to provide an estimate for planning purposes. See footnotes 

for details of some estimates. 

Budget Estimates 1st

/Annual Capital Purchase & Replacement 

Capitol Equipment $107,800 $ 12,000 Non-Capitol 

Equip. $ 6,600 $ 3,000 Facilities $174,500 $ 24,000 

($2,000 per 

month) Materials and Supplies $ 10,500 $ 10,500 Manpower 

$124,400 $124,400+ Operations $ 33,106 $ 33,106+ 

Equipment – Based on District of 22 Square Miles 

Capitol Equipment Pickup trucks 3 @ $16,000 = $48,000 ULV Spray Unit 

3 @ $10,000 = $30,000 
Larvicide Granule Spreader 3-4 each @ $700 = $ 2,800 

Computer 2 @ $2,000 = $ 4,000 

4-Wheeler 1 @ $10,000 = $10,000 

Trailer 1 @ $3,000 = $ 3,000 

Microscope and Lights 1 @ $2,000 = $ 2,000 

Forklift 1 @ $8,000 = $ 8,000

$12,000-16,000 per year est. replace fund $107,800 

General Use Equipment Traps 10 @ $100 = $ 1,000 

GPS Units 4-5 @ $200 = $ 1,000 

Spill Kit 4 @ $100 = $ 400 

Secure chemical and equipment storage area. = $120,000 (minimum) 

Wind speed, temperature and related 

weather devices. 

$ 400 

Night operations, warning light, flashlights, 

signs, misc. hand tools, etc. Office 

Equipment (Desks, Chairs, FAX machine, file 

cabinet, etc 

$ 800 

$ 3,000 

$ 6,600 

Facilities 

Administrative Office, Laboratory and Record Storage, Run-on, 

Run-off surface water addressed. 

Water Supply cross connection protection $ 3,500 

Land $ 40,000 (approx. two acres based on 18-20,000 per acre) 

Wash Rack/Pad $ 6,000 

Rinsate Recovery System $ 2,000 

Chemical Containment $ 3,000 

$174,500 

Materials and Supplies (annual estimates based on 22 square mile 

operation, ground application only) 

Larvacide1 

$2,500 

Adulticide2 $3,100 

Office Supplies $ 600 

Vehicle (Gas, Oil) $2,500 

PPE – Gloves, coveralls, aprons, respirators, boots, goggles, etc. $1,000 

$9,700 

Manpower $124,400 + 

Director $40,000 + Benefits 

Supervisor $28,000 + Benefits 

Office (P/T) $ 9,400 

Seasonal Personnel $47,000 

5 individuals X $10.00 (per hour w/tax and ins.) x 4,700 hours/year 

Manpower estimates based on 2002 wages, estimate 3.5% increase each 

year thereafter. 
Operations Routine Services – Annual Basis 

Telephone/Cell Phone Communication $ 3,000 

Power $ 1,200 

Internet Service $ 300 

Education - PSA / $ 1,000 

Community Outreach / Promotion 

Licenses/Training3,4 $ 3,120 

Surveillance / Monitoring5,6 $ 8,400 

Calibration of Sprayers $ 200 

Container Recycling $ n/c 

Medical Monitoring/Respirator Fit Test $ 400 (Dibrom) 

Accounting / Audit $ 1,500 

Legal / Counsel $ 1,000 

Vehicle and general liability Insurance (ex:) $ 6,086 

Water (drinking and irrigation) $ 300 

Sewer/ Trash $ 600 

Survey Service – (Slope and Grade) $ 1,000 

Drainage Work – Project Based $ 5,000 

$33,106 

Based on 2002 data from Canyon County, annual increases anticipated. 

Contracted Services 

Drainage Contractor – Project Based $ 5,000 (+ or -) 

Ground application $70 - 200 per hour 

Air application $1-6 per acre 

Contracted application rates are estimates based on historical 

values and may not be applicable at current date or in your given 

situation. $5,000 was placed into plan to cover drainage activities 

on an "on-call" basis.) 

Details of estimates 

1 Larvacide — $2,500 on a 22 square mile district (100 gal @ 

$25/gallon) 

2 Adulticide— $3,080 on a 22 square mile district (110 gal @ $28 per 

gallon) 

3 Licensure — Driving and Pesticide Applicator, $120 

4 Training — Examples of training that may be required (Mosquito 

University, PPE, Hazardous Materials, Fork Lift and Mixer-Loader). 

Estimated training cost is $3,000. 

5 Surveillance/ Monitoring estimates are based on 6 traps and 

average summer counts. One trap should service approximately 4 square 

miles (more or less). Mosquito identification and separation for virus 

estimates are based on 0.6 hours per trap night X 2 times per week = 1.2 

hours per week x 26 weeks = 31 hours @ $15 per hour = $465 per trap 

(rounded up), per year. Another $935 is estimated to manage (mileage, 

materials and manpower @ $18 per trap night) the trap and collect 

samples during one season. This estimate averages $1,400 per trap site, 

and $8,400 for the six traps in the example. 

6 Mosquito identification and separation of trapped mosquitoes for 
virus testing (if activity contracted separately from surveillance and 

monitoring) — 4 hours per trap night X 2 times per week = 8 hours per 

week x 26 weeks = 208 hours @ $15 per hour = $3,120 per year (example 

based on 6 traps and average summer counts). 

H. Special considerations for pesticide application 

and other control methods 

Aerial applications 

All proposed aerial applications of pesticides must be reviewed by the 

FAA and performed by a licensed professional applicator. 

Aquatic applications 

Proposed application of pesticides to surface water used for drinking 

purposes must be accompanied by a short-term activity exemption 

from the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. This exemption 

must be obtained prior to initiating pesticide application. 

Bee colony locations 

ISDA requires beekeepers within Idaho to be registered; however, some 

beekeepers do not register their hives or may move them to new 

locations every year. Check with ISDA for registered beekeepers on a 

county-by-county basis, prior to spraying. Insecticides used for 

mosquito control will kill pollinating bees if improperly applied. Follow 

pesticide label instructions and ISDA rule IDAPA 

02.03.03.400 for restrictions related to the protection of pollinators. 

In general application of pesticides toxic to bees shall be made 

during the time frame starting three hours prior to sunset and ending 

three hours after sunrise. 

Biologically-controlled areas 

An example includes the use of organisms to consume the noxious 

weeds purple loosestrife and yellow star thistle. Adulticide applications 

should be avoided in these areas. Check with the local county 

agriculture extension agent for information in your area. 

Chemically sensitive individuals 

Idaho does not have a registry for individuals with chemical sensitivities. 

In practice, most mosquito abatement districts have created lists of 

citizens who wish to be notified prior to application in their area. 

Notification allows the person to leave the immediate area or take other 

actions during pesticide application. Publicizing spraying activities and 

MAD contact information prior to pesticide application may provide an 

opportunity for such individuals to identify themselves. 

Endangered or threatened species 

For information related to Endangered Species Act (ESA) specific 

issues in your area, contact the Idaho Conservation Data Center at the 

Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and ask for George Stephans 
208-334-3402 

Organic farms 

Certified organic farms are registered with the Idaho State Department of 

Agriculture (ISDA). Please check with ISDA for organic operations in 

your area prior to pesticide application. It is important to avoid pesticide 

application that would result in pesticide residues on organic products. 

Restricted pesticide application areas 

These areas are established according to ISDA laws and rules. 

Locations of restricted areas may be obtained by contacting ISDA 

Water irrigation districts, canal companies, and drainage districts 

These operations, if working properly, should not promote mosquito 

breeding because the water should be flowing fast enough to inhibit 

mosquito breeding site development. These operations also have the 

ability to evaluate and initiate drainage of breeding sites on property 

controlled by them. 

Wetlands 

All drainage projects should be evaluated in terms of the requirements 

put forth in the Clean Water Act and enforced by the U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers. 

Private and commercial recreation areas 

For private or commercial recreational areas (e.g., Idaho Power Co. parks 

and campsites) please contact the owner or managing agency for any 

restrictions on that property. 

City, county, state, and federal lands 

Please contact the managing agency for any restrictions on that property. 
I. Frequently asked questions from areas 

lacking abatement districts 

Q. Why should we form an abatement district and what are the 

advantages? 

A. Mosquito abatement districts (MADs), are formed for many 

reasons. One is to protect the public’s health by reducing diseasecarrying mosquitoes. Arboviruses (arthropod borne viruses) may be 

life threatening to some individuals and cause life-long debilitating 

disease in others. MADs also provide a community service by 

eliminating pest mosquitoes which annoy residents, worry livestock 

(an economic issue), and inhibit recreational opportunities. MAD 

formation can be an effective method of pooling financial, labor and 

capital equipment costs. 

Q. Can we ask nearby abatement districts to abate mosquitoes 

in our area even though we don’t have an abatement district of 

our own? 

A. No. MADs function as described in Statute (Title 39, Chapter 28-04) 

to abate mosquitoes within a described district. Besides lack of 

authority, barriers to MADs abating mosquitoes outside of an MAD 

include a lack of funding for such activities, liability issues, a lack of 

known mosquito breeding site locations, and a lack of mapping of 

areas of special consideration. 

Q. How long does it take to establish an abatement district? 

A. The mosquito abatement act was designed to allow for local 

residents to vote for, fund, implement and manage the mosquito 

abatement activities in their immediate area. The election process and 

the setting of the levy to collect operational funds as a tax assessment 

take the most time. The whole process has been known to take an 

average of two years to complete. 

Q. Why aren’t abatement districts countywide? 

A. Ideally abatement districts should be countywide. Abatement 

districts already in existence are finding it difficult to annex adjacent or 

non-adjacent regions in their counties when the need arises. In fact, 

the process of annexation is just as difficult as establishing a new 
abatement district. Abatement districts may include property in two or 

more counties and operate under one management plan as long as the 

district area is contiguous. 

Q. Who should make abatement decisions? 

A. Abatement districts are headed by county commissionerappointed trustees who prioritize abatement efforts (Title 39, 

Chapter 28-03). A MAD shall employ a director to make the day-today management / operational decisions. These decisions are 

based on an approved annual work plan. 

Q. How can we get some start-up funds to begin abatement 

activities prior to the influx of revenue through taxation? 

A. Tax anticipation loans may be obtained from lending institutions for 

districts that have formed but are not receiving revenues yet. 

Legislation may clear the way for other methods of funding such as 

deficiency warrants or a grant program but at this time those options 

have not be authorized. 

Q. Can the District Health Departments help with mosquito 

abatement? 

A. The district health departments are not licensed pesticide 

applicators. District health departments are ex-official members of 

the board of trustees for each existing MAD and therefore are active 

in the administration of the MAD by offering guidance related to 

public health. Several of the health districts have personnel that 

have vector control experience and or knowledge and may be of 

assistance but as of this time there are no formal vector control 

specialists available either at the local or state health department 

level. 

Q. What should we do if surveillance efforts in our area detect 

WNV (positive mosquito pool, positive dead bird, positive 

horse or human) and we are not in an abatement district? 

A. Public education about personal protection and the reduction of 

breeding sites near homes is the first option. The district health 

department is a strong ally with the ability to provide education on 

these topics. Other options include the identification of mosquito 

breeding sites and working with landowners to eliminate standing water 

and the formation of an abatement district. 

Q. Can existing abatement districts make requests directly to 

FEMA for assistance if they are unable to financially maintain 

adequate abatement when arboviruses are detected? 

A. No. The MADs should contact the county emergency coordinator to 

facilitate discussion with the county commissioners about declaring an 

emergency. The county commissioners have the authority to declare a 

state of emergency for the county. When emergency needs exceed the 
county’s ability to respond, the county can send a request for 

assistance to the State to the Bureau of Disaster Services. The Bureau 

of Disaster Services handles the request with the Governor. If the 

emergency needs exceed the state’s ability to respond, the Governor 

can request federal assistance through FEMA. 
Section 4 

Appendices 

A. Glossary of terms 

B. Agency contact list 

C. DEQ aquatic pesticide application rule 

D. Larviciding pesticides and safety issues 

E. Adulticiding pesticides and safety issues 

F. Training required prior to pesticide usage 

G. Example Mosquito Operations plan: Canyon County 

Mosquito Abatement District emergency plan 
Appendix A: 

Glossary of Terms Related to Mosquito Control and Public Health

adulticide a type of pesticide used to kill adult mosquitoes 

arthropod a group of animals that do not have a backbone such as insects, spiders, 

and crustaceans 

assay a laboratory test 

avian surveillance monitoring of the bird population for presence of a disease 

Bacillus sphaericus a bacterium; type of biological pesticide used to eradicate mosquito 

larvae in water (mosquito larvae die after ingesting this bacteria) 

catch basins grates seen at street corners for water runoff 

communicable diseases illnesses due to specific infectious agents or their toxic 

products that can be transmitted from an infected person or animal to a 

susceptible host; either directly or indirectly through an intermediate host 

Culex pipiens species of mosquito, a major vector for West Nile virus, 

commonly found in urban areas; breeds in fresh but stagnant water such 

as backyard containers and storm drains 

DEET DEET (chemical name, N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is the active 

ingredient in many insect repellent products 

encephalitis inflammation of the brain 

 

etiologic agents biologic organism or chemical material that cause disease 

gravid traps type of mosquito traps designed to attract pregnant female 

mosquitoes 

 

IgM-capture enzyme immunoassay (EIA) testing a laboratory analysis for the 

presence of immunoglobulin M antibodies (antibodies that rise during the acute 

phase of an illness and are a sign of recent infection) 

indirect IgG enzyme immunoassay (EIA) testing a laboratory analysis 

for the presence of Immunoglobulin G antibodies (longlasting antibodies; 

their presence are a sign of past infection) 

 

larvae immature mosquitoes; stage which hatches from the egg, prior to 

adult stage 

 

larvicide a type of pesticide used to eradicate immature mosquitoes 

(larvae) 

 

meningitis inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord which 
can be caused by a virus or a bacteria 

 

methoprene a type of larvicide; chemical that is used to prevent mosquito 

larvae from emerging and developing into adult mosquitoes 

 

migratory birds birds that fly south for the winter and return north in the 

spring 

mosquito breeding site where mosquitoes lay eggs, typically stagnant 

water with organic material 

mosquito pool a group of mosquitoes collected in one area and 

combined for laboratory testing 

N,N-diethyl-metatoluamide 

DEET (chemical name, N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is the active ingredient in many insect repellent 

products 

necropsy autopsy on an animal 

outbreak an unexpected increase in frequency or distribution of a disease 

overwintering a period of rest or hibernation by which insects survive the winter 

pesticide substance used to kill pests such as insects, mice and rats; insecticide is a 

form of pesticide 

pyrethrins naturally-occurring plant compounds having insecticidal properties 

pyrethroid a synthetic organic compound with insecticidal properties similar to 

pyrethrins 

resmethrin a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide used to eradicate adult mosquitoes in the 

home, lawn, garden and at industrial sites; active ingredient in the product 

Scourge® 

serologic of, or relating to serum 

serum liquid portion of the blood containing proteins, including antibodies 

vector an organism (an insect in most cases) capable of carrying and transmitting 

a disease-causing agent from one host to another 

vector control mechanism instituted to control and reduce the vector population 

vector surveillance monitoring of the vector population for presence of a disease 

viral of or relating to a virus 

viral encephalitis inflammation of the brain caused by a virus 
Appendix B: Agency Duties and Contact List 

Bureau of Land Management 

Jan Peterson, Safety/Occupational Health Manager 

Idaho State Office 

1387 S. Vinnell Way 

Boise, Idaho 83709 

PH: 208-373-4030; FAX: 208-373-3805 

Jan_Peterson@blm.gov

 

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality 

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) is 

responsible for protecting Idaho’s drinking water quality, preserving 

Idaho’s air quality, ensuring proper disposal of solid wastes, and 

remediation of releases of hazardous materials. The general 

number for IDEQ is 208-373-0502. See their website 

http://www.deq.state.id.us/ for additional contact information. 

Idaho Department of Fish and Game: 

To discuss issues regarding mosquito abatement and IDFG lands, 

or West Nile virus in wildlife, contact Jeff Gould 334-2920. 

Wildlife Diseases Laboratory 

16569 S. 10th Ave 

Caldwell IE 83605 

208-454-7646 

Idaho Conservation Data Center 

For information regarding endangered species, please contact George 

Stephans, 208-334-3402 

Idaho State Department of Health and Welfare 

Office of Epidemiology 

450 W. State St., 4th

 Floor 

Boise, ID 83720 

208-334-5939 

The Office of Epidemiology is responsible for tracking reportable 

diseases in Idaho. Disease due to West Nile virus and other 

arboviruses is reportable under these categories: aseptic or viral 

meningitis or encephalitis, and extraordinary occurrence of disease 

(e.g., flaccid paralysis due to WNV.) A reported or suspected case of 

WNV disease will be investigated to determine the source of infection 

(when possible), to confirm laboratory findings, and to promote public 

health practices designed to reduce the opportunity for human illness. 

This may include the generation of educational press releases 

encouraging individuals to reduce mosquito habitats and mosquito 
biting opportunities around the home. The Office of Epidemiology will 

work closely with district health departments. Additional activities 

include maintaining an educational website on WNV and working with 

other agencies involved with WNV, namely the ISDA and the IDFG. 

Bureau of Laboratories 

Virology Section 

2220 Old Penitentiary Rd. 

Boise, ID 83712 

The state Bureau of Laboratories is capable of testing for the 

presence of WNV or antibodies against the virus in humans, 

horses, birds, and mosquitoes. Testing for this virus is a priority with 

rapid turn-around times and rapid reporting back to the submitting 

agency or physician. 

District Health Departments: 

District health departments provide public health services to all 44 

counties in Idaho. 

District 1: Panhandle Health District 

Coeur d’Alene, ID 

208-677-3481 

District 2: North Central Health District 

Lewiston, ID 

208-799-3100 

District 3: Southwest District Health Department 

Caldwell, ID 

208-455-5300 

District 4: Central District Health Department 

Boise, ID 

208-375-5211 

District 5: South Central Health District 

Twin Falls, ID 

208-737-5900 

District 6: Southeastern Health District 

Pocatello, ID 
208-233-9080 

District 7: District Seven Health Department 

Idaho Falls, ID 

208-522-0310 

Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) The roles of the Idaho 

State Department of Agriculture as related to animal disease tracking, 

the control of mosquitoes, and pesticide use include: 

Division of Animal Industries 

State Veterinarian, 208-332-8560 

ISDA Animal Industries has the responsibility to address emerging 

animal diseases (such as West Nile virus). ISDA will continue to advise 

veterinarians and citizens statewide on the actions needed to address 

the WNV situation in domestic animals. Within the Division of Animal 

Industries, the Bureau of Animal Health and Livestock will track 

information related to reported horse cases and investigate suspicious 

cases in other animal species. 

Urban Pesticide Program 

Robert S. Hays, Coordinator; 208-442-2803 

1 The authority to regulate pesticide usage in Idaho. 

That authority includes the licensure of pesticide applicators, the 

registration of pesticide products used in Idaho, routine inspections related 

to pesticide use, and the investigation of pesticide related complaints. 

ISDA's Division of Agricultural Resources (DAR) conducts these activities 

as well as providing training for pesticide applicators. 

2 Integrated pest management training and information. 

DAR staff provides Idaho mosquito abatement districts and personnel with 

information and training related to integrated pest management 

techniques, pest monitoring/surveillance, pest management plan 

development, technical pesticide issues and pesticide regulation 

compliance. 

3 ULV spray equipment calibration. 

In an effort to maintain compliance with the pesticide label directions 

related to ultra low volume (ULV) droplet size, ISDA's Division of Animal 

Industries provides equipment and personnel for the calibration of ULV 

spray equipment used for adult mosquito control applications. This is a 

service based on request only and a fee is charged. 

Organic Program 

ISDA certifies organic producers. According to IDAPA 02.06.33.004, 
section 

205.202 Land Requirements: 

Any field or farm parcel from which harvested crops are 

intended to be sold, labeled, or represented as “organic,” 

must: (b) Have no prohibited substances, as listed in 

205.105 (i.e. synthetic substances, unless on allowed list, 

pesticides, fertilizers, prohibited non-synthetic substances, 

sewage sludge) applied to it for a period of 3 years 

immediately preceding harvest of the crop. 

A current list of certified organic growers for a given area may be 

obtained by contacting the ISDA at 208-332-8620. 

Apiary Program 

The ISDA's Apriary Program registers bee keepers operating in 

Idaho on a county-by-county basis. Please contact Mike Cooper, 

Acting Administrator, Division of Plant Industries, Idaho State 

Department of Agriculture at phone number 208-332-8620 for bee 

keeper contact information. 

Idaho Department of Water Resources 

The Idaho Department of Water Resources is responsible for water 

resource protection (e.g., ground water protection, stream channel 

protection, flood plain management), water allocation (e.g., water 

rights and distribution), and water planning (e.g., minimum stream 

flows), among other duties. For issues involving mosquito abatement 

and WNV, contact Dick Larson, 208-327-7933 

Idaho Water Users Association 

The Idaho Water Users Association is organized to ‘promote, aid and 

assist the development, control, conservation, preservation and 

utilization of the water resources of the State of Idaho and to 

cooperate with similar organizations in other states...” For issues 

regarding irrigation water, contact: Norm Semanko, Executive 

Director 410 S. Orchard Boise, Idaho 83705 208-344-6690 208-344-

2744 iwua@iwua.org 

Mountain Home Air Force Base 

Conducts surveillance and coordinates control measures on the 

base. Public Health Flight Commander Mountain Home AFB, Idaho 

Tel: 208-828-7385 

National Park Service 

To discuss pest management coordination with respect to National 

Parks, contact one of the following individuals: 

Gerald McCrea 

Regional Pest Management Coordinator 

National Park Service, Intermountain Region 
gerald_mccrea@nps.gov

PH: 505 988-6204 FAX: 505 988-6876 

Erv Gasser 

Regional Pest Management Coordinator 

National Park Service, Pacific Region 

erv_gasser@nps.gov

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

For issues related to West Nile virus, contact: 

Brayton P. Willis, Jr. 

Boise Office, Walla Walla District 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

P.O. Box 2780 

Boise, Idaho 83701 

PH: 208-345-2064 FAX: 208-345-2263 

brayton.p.willis@usace.army.mil 

For issues related to enforcement of wetlands protection under the 

Clean Water Act, contact Greg Martinez, 208-345-2155 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

To discuss mosquito abatement issues with respect to U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service lands, contact: 

Sam Johnson, Region 1 Integrated Pest Management Coordinator 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

NWRS/OPR/Biology 

9317 Highway 99, Suite D 

Vancouver, WA 98665 

PH: 360 696-7621; FAX 360-696-7968 

E-mail: sam_johnson@fws.gov

U.S. Forest Service 

To discuss mosquito abatement issues with respect to U.S. Forest 

Service lands, contact 

Janet A. Valle, 801-625-5258, jvalle@fs.fed.us 
Appendix C. DEQ aquatic pesticide application rule 

Idaho Administrative Code, Department of Environmental Quality 

IDAPA 58.01.02 – Water Quality Standards and Wastewater Treatment 

Regulations follows. Please refer to section 080. 

Appendix D. Larvicidal pesticides 

Because of the nature of pesticide development and the annual 

registration of pesticides for distribution within Idaho, the following list of 

mosquito control products may or may not be current. When purchasing 

pesticide products, inquire if they are registered for sale in Idaho. You may 

also contact the Idaho State Department of Agriculture at 208-332-8610 to 

check the registration status of a pesticide. 

Larvicides 

1 Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI)(e.g. Vectobac®, 

Teknar®, Mosquito Dunks®, Bti Tossits®) Use: Approved for most 

permanent and temporary bodies of water. Limitations: Only works on 

actively feeding stages (larval instar stages one, two and three). Does not 

persist well in the water column. 

2 Bacillus sphaericus (e.g. Vectolex®) Use: Approved for most 

permanent and temporary bodies of water. Limitations: Only works on 

actively feeding stages. Does not work well on all species. May persist and 

have residual activity in some sites. 

3 IGRs (Insect Growth Regulators) Methoprene (e.g. Altosid®) Use: 

Approved for most permanent and temporary bodies of water. 

Limitations: Works best on older instars. Some populations of 

mosquitoes may show some resistance. Diflurobenzamide (e.g.

Dimilin®) 

Use: Impounded tailwater, sewage effluent, urban drains and catch 

basins. Limitations: Cannot be applied to wetlands, crops, or near 

estuaries. 

1 Larvaciding oils (e.g. Golden Bear 1111®, BVA Chrysalin®) Use: 

Ditches, dairy lagoons, floodwater. Effective against all stages, including 

pupae. Limitations: Use of these products should be limited to areas that 

will not have run off or over flow out of treated area. Some plant damage 

has been observed from the use of larvacide oils (rice crops in 

California).5. 

2 Monomolecular Films (e.g. Agnique MMF®) Use: Most standing 

water including certain crops. Limitations: Does not work well in areas with 

winds in excess of ten mph. 

3 Organo-phosphate based larvacides (e.g. Abate®) Use: 

Breeding sites as specified on label directions. Limitations: Must be 

applied to areas with not run off or outflow, not selective, will kill other 

species besides mosquito larva. 

4 Pyrethrins (e.g. Pyrenone Tossits®) Use: Breeding sites as 

specified on label, usually paired with pipernol butoxide as a synergist. 
Limitations: Must be applied to areas with not run off or outflow, not 

selective, will kill other species besides mosquito larva. 

Always read the label for safety considerations and follow the label 

directions for use. 
Appendix E. Adulticidal pesticides 

Because of the nature of pesticide development and the annual 

registration of pesticides for distribution within Idaho, the following list of 

mosquito control products may or may not be current. When purchasing 

pesticide products, inquire if they are registered for sale in Idaho. You 

may also contact the Idaho State Department of Agriculture at 208-332-

8610 to check the registration status of a pesticide. 

Adulticides 

1. Organophosphate compounds 

Note: Some mosquito populations may become resistant to label OP 

application rates is applications have been routine over several years. 

Recommend alternating or cycling adulticide products to avoid 

resistance 

development. 

Malathion (e.g. Fyfanon®) 

Use: May be applied by air or ground equipment over urban areas, 

and most crops, and wetlands when applied at labeled rates for public 

health applications. 

Limitations: May damage automobile paint if large droplets are 

produced; toxic to fish, wildlife and bees; crop residue limitations may 

resujlt in preharvest interval for some crops. 

Naled (e.g. Dibrom®, Trumpet EC®) 

Use: Air or ground application on fodder crops, swamps, floodwater, 

residential areas. 

Limitations: Same as malathion, and some cosmetic spotting of fruit 

may occur in dry hot climates. 

1 Pyrethrins (natural pyrethrin products) (e.g. Pyrenone Mosquito 

Spray®, Pyrocide®) Use: Wetlands, floodwater, residential areas, some 

crops. Limitations: Do not apply to drinking water, milking areas; may be 

toxic to bees, fish, and some wildlife. Shellfish, such as crawdads, display 

little or no tolerance to these products. Some formulations with synergists 

have greater limitations. 

2 Pyrethroids (synthetic pyrethrin products containing resmethrin, 

sumethrin, or permethrin) (e.g. Scourge®, Anvil®) Use: All non-crop areas 

including wetlands and floodwater. Limitations: May be toxic to bees, fish, 

and some wildlife; avoid treating food crops, drinking water or milk 

production. 

Always read the label for safety considerations 

and 

follow label directions for use. 
Appendix F. Special training required prior to pesticide application 

Depending on the type of business and the type of pesticide applied, 

two categories of pesticide applicator license are required. 

To commercially apply pesticides for mosquito control or to apply a 

restricted use pesticide for adult mosquito control, one must be licensed 

in the "public health" and "law and safety" categories of the Idaho State 

Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator licensing program. 

Currently there is no requirement for applicator licensing if the 

applications are of general use pesticides on land owned or controlled 

by the applicator or the applicator's employer. Some mosquito 

abatement districts require the manager to be a licensed professional 

pesticide applicator to demonstrate competency and as a condition of 

employment. 

A public applicator license category is currently being considered by 

the ISDA to require licensure of all individuals that apply any pesticide 

to public property (schools, parks, public buildings), or private property 

(stores, restaurants, private institutions), open to public access. 

Public Health Pesticide Applicator Certification Training Idaho State 

Department of Agriculture, Sherman Takatori 208-332-8609 Certification 

and licensing is required for individuals wishing to apply restricted-use 

pesticides or apply pesticides commercially in the control of public 

health vectors. This training is three hours in length. 

General use pesticide application 

Information is available through the Idaho State Department of 

Agriculture Urban Pesticide Program, Robert Hays, 208-442-2803, 

related to the use of general use pesticides for mosquito control in 

situation not requiring pesticide applicator licensure. 

For more general information on pesticides: 

American Mosquito Control Association 

http://www.mosquito.org/ 

Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control Association 

http://www.nwmvca.org/ 

Environmental Protection Agency 

http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ 

Appendix G. Example of a mosquito abatement district 

arbovirus emergency plan 

Please click here for the Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District 

(CCMAD) Standard Operating Procedures for CCMAD Arbovirus 
Emergencies.