Drones for Integrated Mosquito Management
VDCI is dedicated to leading the charge on innovations within the vector control industry. Dual-engine aircrafts, specialized GPS-monitoring systems, and cutting-edge surveillance technologies have remained a staple for our advanced treatment strategies and natural disaster response efforts. Now, VDCI is expanding capabilities with the use of aerial drone technology.
Why use drones?
Drones fulfill the growing need for mosquito management services in more compact or sensitive areas. VDCI’s drone fleet is designed with state-of-the-art equipment that lends speed, precision, and discretion to existing ground operations, particularly across dense, unstable terrain or ecologically protected habitats. These hard-to-reach spots can be inaccessible to teams in trucks or on foot, making mosquito control initiatives more tedious, dangerous, and costly.
Drones fill the gap between ground and plane applications in these kinds of locations. This highly maneuverable technology uses GPS technology to access mapped target sites, and guide precision applications using a variety of products.
Who operates the drones?
In contrast to hobbyist drones, our unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are custom-built by Leading Edge Aerial Technologies, Inc. for commercial applications. Each drone exhibits a 6ft wingspan and is equipped with superior features that are operated remotely by a professional team.
Each drone pilot is licensed through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and has extensive knowledge of airspace regulations, maintenance procedures, and emergency response. These experts are also experienced with superior drone programming techniques that facilitate up to 150 acres of product applications per day.
Are drones safe for mosquito control?
Not only do drones help our ground application crews avoid navigating precarious locations like swamps and wetlands – which can be home to alligators, snakes, and other dangerous species – their rechargeable electric batteries can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These precautions and sustainable initiatives directly align with VDCI’s commitment to always protecting both the environment and our people.
Additionally, drones are especially quiet and unobtrusive around residential spaces. They are configured with software that block filming, so homeowners can have peace of mind while mosquito management efforts take place nearby.
Another tool in our advanced toolbox:
Drones are transforming the way we approach vector control programs, and the technology will continue to progress at a rapid rate. Nevertheless, drones are but one tool in our arsenal of advanced solutions that comprise an Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program. A layered IMM approach that integrates a multitude of strategies will generate the most effective and long-lasting results for stakeholders.
Have more questions about drones for mosquito management?
Contact Us to Learn More About Drone Technology for Mosquito Management
Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.