Aerial mosquito spraying following Hurricane Irma
As you may be aware, Polk County recorded more than 11 inches of rain due to Hurricane Irma, which resulted in many flooded areas and produced ideal mosquito habitats. We are already seeing a significant increase in the mosquito population.
As a result, the county requested assistance from the State for aerial spraying of mosquitoes to help reduce the threat of mosquito-borne disease outbreaks in Polk. During the next two to three days, the State through a contracted agency, will be conducting aerial spraying in North Lakeland, Kathleen, Polk City, Mulberry, Bartow, Lake Wales, Fort Meade, Frostproof, Indian Lake Estates, River Ranch and Davenport areas. Contact persons are Carl Boohene, Mosquito Control Director, or Jackson Mosley, Parks and Natural Resources, at (863) 534-7377.