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Metropolitan Mosquito Control District warns of West Nile carryover, outlines tire‑drop events and drone expansion
Summary
Metropolitan Mosquito Control District officials told the Scott County Board that 2025 was a record year for West Nile virus in the metro and outlined stepped‑up surveillance, continued reliance on larval control, expanded drone use and free tire drop‑off events in Scott County for 2026.
Metropolitan Mosquito Control District representatives told the Scott County Board on March 17 that last year’s mosquito season produced unusually early and intense disease activity and that the district is preparing targeted measures for 2026.
"We had 45 human cases in the Twin Cities last year and actually I think that's been actually up to 47," Alex Carlson, public affairs manager for MMCD, said during the presentation, citing delayed public‑health reporting. Carlson said the primary mosquito species responsible for West Nile peaked much earlier than normal in 2025, producing high mosquito counts and a high percent positive for the virus.
Daniel Huff, the district’s executive director, described the agency’s integrated pest‑management approach: routine surveillance to identify species and habitats, larval control where mosquitoes breed and targeted adult control in periods of high disease activity. "Larval control is the safest, most effective method," Carlson said; adult control is used sparingly when disease risk is high or at the request of municipalities for special events.
MMCD also described operational changes that expanded treatment reach in 2025, including a larger drone program that allowed faster, safer access to acreage that would have required more time and risk for ground crews. The district reported its highest larval treatment acreage since 2016 and said drones will continue to be part of the program.
On county‑specific issues, MMCD officials said Scott County’s reported workload was similar to 2024 but highlighted a jump in tires collected (reported as rising from about 1,600 to roughly 8,000), partially attributable to a joint drop‑off event with Carver County. The district said it will host free tire drop‑off dates at the Scott County Fairgrounds (up to 10 tires per household with proof of residency) to reduce breeding habitat.
The presenters promoted public resources — an updated interactive map that shows monitored mosquito habitats and past treatments, a residence guide with backyard tips and information on BTI larvicide products — and encouraged residents to report problems or question treatments through MMCD’s website and phone line. The district said it will issue public notices if spring or tick risk changes warrant them.
The board’s discussion included practical questions from commissioners about whether homeowner associations should treat retention ponds (the district recommended contacting MMCD first to avoid double‑treatment) and confirmation that there is no fee for the Scott County tire drop‑off events but proof of residence will be required.
The presentation concluded with the district’s offer to provide outreach at community events, including the Scott County Fair, and to provide commissioners links to public maps and treatment schedules.
