West Sacramento Launches New Mosquito Control Techniques Amid Rising Infestation Concerns

During the recent West Sacramento City Council meeting on July 16, 2025, officials discussed the growing issue of invasive mosquitoes and the city's response to manage their populations. The conversation highlighted the lack of a dedicated mobile app for residents to receive notifications about mosquito control efforts, although email notifications are available for those who sign up at fightthebite.net. These notifications inform residents about spraying schedules and affected areas, particularly when infected mosquitoes are detected.

The council learned that invasive mosquitoes, which have spread significantly in recent years, are becoming a larger concern in West Sacramento and surrounding areas. These pests can thrive in small containers, making it essential for residents to regularly clean and drain standing water around their properties. The city is actively working to educate the public about these measures and is open to community presentations to raise awareness.

In response to the agricultural community's concerns, officials confirmed that routine aerial spraying is conducted in agricultural areas, particularly rice fields, to control mosquito populations. The council also discussed the introduction of a new sterile insect technique, which has shown promising results in pilot programs elsewhere, with a reported 95% reduction in mosquito populations.

Residents expressed concerns about the safety of spraying chemicals used in mosquito control, especially regarding their impact on local agriculture and health. Officials reassured the council that the spraying is conducted at night to minimize exposure to workers and that the chemicals used are specifically targeted to mosquitoes, posing minimal risk to humans and pets.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in mosquito control efforts, with officials encouraging residents to report mosquito activity and potential breeding sites. As the summer progresses, the city aims to enhance its communication strategies and ensure that residents are informed and involved in keeping their neighborhoods safe from mosquito-borne diseases.