293 - Black fly management at Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District: A Game of Leapfrog

As a result of a severe Black fly Simulium spp. infestation along the Los Angeles River corridor, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) created its first Black fly Control Program in 1996. Augmented by a special assessment for properties along the Los Angeles River and tributaries, these areas have been continuously monitored and treated to reduce Black fly presence.

Beginning in early spring, personnel from the Science-Technical Services department (Sci-Tech) commence surveillance activities, which continue throughout the season. Presence, and ranked abundance levels are reported to Operations for treatment.

Since inception of the program, Black fly abundance has not approached pre-program levels of activity, as evidenced by the lack of visible adult activity in the air, and lack of complaints. This presentation will discuss our current program’s status and how it has evolved.