The City of Minot, in conjunction with Minot Air Force Base and the Ohio Air National Guard, has scheduled aerial spraying for mosquito control in the Minot area for an evening between July 13-17, weather permitting.

The city announced crews will choose the day and time of the spraying depending on weather and wind conditions to spray when mosquitoes are most active. Missions generally take place between 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. Updates on the timing of the spraying will be provided on the City of Minot’s social media platforms.

The City of Minot captures daily mosquito counts throughout the city. If the count is low, the spray mission would likely be cancelled. Recent numbers have shown to be low but steadily climbing. Larval counts are also increasing.

Mosquito spraying is provided and scheduled by the 910th Airlift Wing’s Air Force Aerial Spray Squadron from Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Ohio. The application will be made using a modified C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.

A U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered pesticide will be used. The active ingredient in the spray is Naled, which poses a minimal risk to the general population, pets and wildlife when applied in this method. More information about Naled is available on the EPA website under mosquito control.

Residents concerned with potential risks with Naled can take several preventative measures, according to the EPA, including:

– Stay indoors during and immediately after aerial spraying.

– Cover or move outdoor items such as toys, pet items, patio furniture, bird

feeders or grills to prevent contamination. Bring pets indoors during spraying.

– Cover edible plants beforehand or wash fruits and vegetables after the

application to remove any residues.