At the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District, we use an Integrated Vector Management approach to manage mosquito populations using environmentally conscious and data-driven strategies. This dynamic combination of methods into one thoughtful, ecologically-sensitive program is referred to as Integrated Vector Management (IVM).

Sometimes when referring to mosquitoes, this program is referred to as Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM).

How does the District integrate IVM principles in its program?

The District’s mosquito control program employs IVM principles by first determining the species and abundance of mosquitoes through larval and adult surveillance and then using the most efficient, effective and environmentally sensitive means of mosquito control. In some situations, water management or source reduction programs can be instituted to reduce breeding areas. The District also considers biological control such as the planting of mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis). When these approaches are not practical or otherwise appropriate, then a pesticide program is used so that specific breeding areas and/or adult mosquitoes can be treated.

Alameda County contains many water sources that act as mosquito/vector breeding areas near populated areas. Without ongoing and effective mosquito control, the human environment would be significantly and adversely affected by substantial mosquito activity. The District’s mosquito control program, including biological and chemical control, is essential to abate the vectors in the environment to a tolerable level. The District’s program will never alleviate all mosquito vectors. Rather, it is a maintenance program aimed at striking a balance to allow comfortable and healthful human existence, while protecting and maintaining the environment. History has shown us that the control and abatement of vectors are necessary for our human environment to continue to be habitable.

The District native mosquito control program is directed primarily at the larval stages of native/local mosquitoes. Control activities are contained to a localized area and have a lower impact utilitizing this approach because the larvicides used by the District specifically target the mosquito’s biological systems. Although adult mosquitoes may be targeted for control, it is not the emphasis of the District native mosquito program. Focusing on mosquito larvae requires that control be achieved in a number of different types of breeding sources.

The District is committed to researching and investigating innovative mosquito reduction strategies based on science to ensure the use of efficient and effective mosquito control methods for native and invasive mosquitoes. The California Department of Public Health advises all mosquito abatement and vector control districts to use IVM principles in their programs. 

Additional Resources

Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) | Integrated Vector Management is Critical for Protecting Public Health

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) | Best Management Practices for Mosquito Control in California

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) | Integrated Mosquito Management