Mosquito spraying was scheduled to take place in Minot last night.

The City of Minot, in conjunction with the Minot Air Force Base and the Ohio Air National Guard’s Youngstown Air Reserve Station 910th Airlift Wing, confirmed the date Tuesday. Spraying has been scheduled to also take place at Minot Air Force Base, Williston and Burlington between Tuesday and Thursday. The applications will be made using a modified C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft flying 150 feet above ground level, according to base information.

The pesticide used is designed for small insects and can harm pollinators. However, bees and butterflies return to their hives and nests in the evenings, which is why the mission is conducted late at night. The active ingredient in the pesticide spray is Naled. When applied in this method, Naled poses a minimal risk to the general population, pets and wildlife.

Information can be found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s webiste at epa.gov/mosquitocontrol/naled-mosquito-control.

Minot AFB Public Health recommends humans and domestic animals remain indoors when the aerial spraying is occurring immediately overhead or upwind and until the mist settles to the ground. Citizens with questions should contact the 5th Civil Engineer Squadron pest management office at 723-2393.