As the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District marks its 35th anniversary, the agency reflects on its evolution and the cutting-edge strategies it has employed to protect public health in the face of emerging threats like West Nile virus and invasive mosquito species.
Since its formation in 1989, the District has grown to meet the needs of its residents and has become a leader in vector control, serving the San Gabriel Valley region of California. The agency’s mission remains as crucial as ever, with mosquito-borne diseases posing a significant risk to public health.
“The District’s primary goal is to monitor and control mosquito activity and prevent mosquito-borne disease outbreaks in the San Gabriel Valley,” said Anais Medina Diaz, the District’s Director of Communications.
Over the years, the District has faced numerous challenges, including the emergence of West Nile virus in the early 2000s and the introduction of invasive Aedes mosquitoes in 2011.
In response, the agency has developed a comprehensive integrated vector management strategy that combines surveillance, education, and targeted control measures.
One of the District’s most innovative programs is the Virtual Swimming Pool Program, which uses satellite imagery to identify potential mosquito breeding sites in neglected swimming pools. This technology has helped the District locate and treat these sources of mosquito activity more efficiently.
The District has also invested in advanced technologies, such as geographic information systems (GIS) and data analytics, to guide its efforts. These tools have allowed the agency to track mosquito populations, monitor disease activity, and allocate resources more effectively.
In addition to its cutting-edge strategies, the District has placed a strong emphasis on community engagement and partnerships.
The EcoHealth Vector Education Program, for example, provides free mosquito-related curriculum to K-12 students in the San Gabriel Valley, fostering a new generation of informed citizens.
“By partnering with trusted community organizations, we’ve been able to connect with residents who might not otherwise be aware of the importance of mosquito control,” Medina Diaz explained.
The District has also collaborated with local organizations, such as the California Botanic Garden and the Theodore Payne Foundation, to promote mosquito-free environments through the use of native plants and sustainable landscaping practices.
As the District looks to the future, it remains committed to innovation, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. The agency continues to collaborate with academic institutions and industry partners to develop new vector control strategies and stay at the forefront of the field.
In 2023, the Special District Leadership Foundation recognized the district’s dedication to transparency and good governance with the Transparency Certificate of Excellence, underscoring its commitment to serving the public.
The District is well-positioned to continue its vital work for years to come.
Click here for more about the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District and how to keep your loved ones safe from mosquito-borne diseases.
