The North Central Mosquito Control Association is focused on providing education, training and informational services to people working in the mosquito control industry, public health, education, research, and other related industries of the Upper Midwest.
In 2006, the initial meeting of the North Central Mosquito Control Association was held to increase communication between mosquito control operations in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.
Since we all dealt with similar habitat and mosquito species, we developed a forum in which we could share ideas and learn about each other’s operations. Our first meeting was hosted by Todd Hanson, Grand Forks Public Health in Grand Forks, ND and was well received. We determined we should meet annually to further the education of the regional mosquito control professionals.
In the following years, the Association wanted to move the annual meeting around the region to reach out to more members and increase the number of people who could attend Association events. The meetings were hosted by Angela Balint and Cass County Vector Control in Fargo, ND (2007) and Colleen Peterson and the City of Bismarck, Bismarck, ND (2008) respectfully. Both meetings were well attended and members appreciated being able to visit other regional mosquito operational headquarters. This direct exposure developed a better overall understanding of operations and increased the exchange of information.
In 2009, the Association was increased to include two states (Wisconsin & Iowa) and three provinces of Canada (Saskatchewan, Manitoba & Western Ontario). The expansion was driven by the desire to increase communication of neighboring operations, best practices and mosquito vector issues. As we know, mosquitoes do not recognize state or international borders. We expanded the conference to two days to increase the “hands-on” experience and gain more operational knowledge. The meeting was hosted by Mark E. Smith and the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, St. Paul, MN. It was held at MMCD’s North Facility in Andover, MN. This meeting had a one day conference and 1/2 day field operations session. The meeting format was successful and attendees stated the event was very educational and informative. Everyone enjoyed the BBQ put on by MMCD’s resident chef/pit master, Marty Kirkman and MMCD staff.
The Association wants to continue to expand its reach throughout the region. We desire to provide a reasonably priced meeting that people can gain pertinent experience that assists them in their responsibilities and occupations. We will strive to work with members/sponsors to provide a forum that meets their needs. We look forward to having you join us!