Aerial spraying could kill more than mosquitoes

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — The fear over the chemical Naled, used in aerial mosquito spraying, extends not only to kids and expectant mothers, but to pets and wildlife.

Bo Sterk, master beekeeper for the state of Florida, told Action News Jax that the bees inside the hive aren’t in danger. But the ones hanging outside are a source of concern.

Twenty years of working with bees has taught Sterk the importance of the insect’s role in the environment and the economy.

“One third of our food crop comes from pollination of bees," said Sterk. "So they’re needed for a lot of things. We wouldn’t have a lot of food that we rely on without pollination.”

Sterk said that Hurricane Matthew has already taken a toll on local bee populations. He fears aerial spraying for mosquitoes could cause an even bigger problem.

According to Chris Bibbs with the Anastasia Mosquito patrol, the aerial spraying of Naled has already reduced mosquito counts from 200 to 2 per minute.

The CDC said the chemical won’t impact people, animals or water, but it will kill all insects. This is one of the reasons why they’re spraying at night, when bees aren’t active.

Additionally, the county is keeping in close contact with beekeepers so they can take precautions, like covering the hives with sheets so the insects won’t come in contact with the chemical.

Cox Media Group