JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS — The 757th Airlift Squadron assigned to Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, will conduct an aerial mosquito spray over Craney Island and the Churchland section of Portsmouth overnight Tuesday, July 23, 633d Air Base Wing Public Affairs announced.
In the event of weather or mechanical delays, the mission will take place on Wednesday, July 24. Although the spray team will depart and return to JBLE-Langley, no insecticides will be dispersed over JBLE-Langley or the surrounding communities, it said.
A U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules will disperse the spray after sunset to minimize impact to non-target insects such as bees, and to decrease exposure to personnel within the application area, according to 633d Air Base Wing Public Affairs. The specially modified C-130s use global positioning and other accurate navigation systems to make sure the spaying occurs only over designated areas. In addition, a technician monitors operations of the spray rate and flow, under the direction of a 757th AS entomologist, to ensure accurate delivery.
The unit will apply Trumpet EC at a rate of 1 ounce per acre. The agent is disbursed out of spray bars under each wing in 30-micron droplets. The aircraft will make multiple spray passes at an altitude of 300 feet. 633d Air Base Wing Public Affairs noted although no insecticide applications will occur outside the target areas of Craney Island/Churchland, the Pest Management department recommends beekeepers adjacent to these areas cover their hives in the evening to help prevent any loss of bees.
The insecticide being used is safe for humans and pets, it added, but those with allergies or respiratory concerns should remain indoors during aerial spraying operations. It is also recommended that small children remain indoors as their respiratory systems are not fully developed and are more susceptible to irritation.
The visiting C-130 aircrews will conduct the mission in accordance with the JBLE-Langley Integrated Pest Management Plan and Air Force Manual 32-1053, Integrated Pest Management Program.
For more information, contact the 633d ABW Public Affairs at 764-5701, or email 633ABW.PA.Media@us.af.mil.
