The City launches WA’s first commercial mosquito control service using drones
The City is proud to offer WA's first mosquito control and drone operations service to combat mosquito breeding.
The City has established a mosquito control service, using industry-leading drone technology, to support State and local governments combat mosquito breeding.
Mayor Filomena Piffaretti said the mosquito control service will be the first of its kind in Western Australia.
“As a leader in mosquito control, we’re proud to share our expertise and offer WA’s first mosquito control and drone operations service,” she said.
“Last year, we trialled drone technology to conduct aerial site surveys and trial mosquito larvicide treatments in high breeding sites in the Berringa and Baigup wetlands.
“As a result of the trial, we have seen a significant reduction in mosquito breeding.
“The incredible results from our trial created significant interest from other local governments and State Government agencies.
“We’re now in the position to offer our services to others to combat mosquito breeding occurring outside of the City’s boundaries.
“Mosquitoes can carry viruses including Ross River Virus and Barmah Forrest Virus so it’s important we continue to take a proactive approach to protect our own community and our neighbouring communities.”
The City utilises drones to accurately target areas of the wetlands that are difficult to access and treat either by foot or vehicle.
“Our experienced Mosquito Control Unit use a number of different treatment techniques to manage mosquito breeding sites, which include hand-held granule spreaders, backpack blowers and a 6-wheel drive amphibious all terrain (ARGO) vehicle. The commercial drones allow us to accurately target hard to reach areas,” Mayor Piffaretti said.
“A small drone is initially flown out to map the areas where mosquito breeding is occurring. This information is then programmed into an agricultural drone, which then applies the mosquito larvicide. Certified pilots fly the drone out to the mapped area and the drone then flies itself through the area, directly targeting locations at approximately five metres above the vegetation.
“We only use a biological larvicide, which is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that specifically targets mosquito larvae only, without harming any other aquatic, local wildlife or surrounding vegetation.”
The City’s commercial mosquito control service will commence in November 2023.
Pictured: Mayor Piffaretti with Mosquito Control Unit staff members Van and Don at Clarkson Reserve in Maylands.