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Saginaw County Taking To The Skys To Fight Mosquito Populations This Spring
Russ Survance
Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:52:28 EDT
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SAGINAW COUNTY, Mich. - Efforts to curb mosquito populations are getting underway in Saginaw County, with aerial treatment possibly beginning as early as Thursday - though recent rainfall is creating some uncertainty.
Officials with the Saginaw County Mosquito Abatement Commission say saturated ground conditions have expanded breeding areas, particularly in flooded woodlots. That standing water is expected to produce a surge in mosquito larvae if not addressed quickly.
Crews plan to treat roughly 50,000 acres using aircraft, focusing first on outlying areas where water levels remain highest. The goal is to reduce mosquito numbers before they reach the biting stage.
The treatment uses a naturally occurring soil bacterium that targets mosquito larvae in water and is considered safe for people, pets, and wildlife.
Timing remains key, as officials are waiting for water levels to recede enough to concentrate larvae in more defined areas. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around their homes - such as in buckets, boats, and containers - to help limit mosquito breeding.
Up to eight planes are expected to operate out of H.W. Browne Airport, working over several days to cover large sections of the county.
