Public Works

Mosquito Control Program

The Program's 30 employees provide mosquito control services in Charleston County's 1,353 square miles using several diverse methods:

1. Surveillance: Our helicopter inspection team, 7 field inspectors, and the Source Reduction crew monitor rainfall, tides, and mosquito populations on a daily basis throughout the County. Citizens, via telephone, also inform the division of unusually high mosquito population levels. In 2024, the division received and responded to 2,605 citizen requests for service.
2. Aquatic Stage Mosquitoes (Larvae): We utilize a ground crew, to eliminate aquatic stage mosquitoes in areas of standing water, such as yards and drainage ditches. Aircraft are used for dredge disposal sites, and areas ground crews cannot reach. The ground crew also introduces small predatory fish into semi-permanent standing water areas. 13,937 acres were treated in 2024. Larvicide: Treatment of mosquito larvae in standing water from rainfall/tidal events. For larvicide products used by ground and air see below.
3. Adult Mosquitoes: We use truck-mounted spray units, a helicopter, and an airplane to kill adult mosquitoes. In 2024, a total of 789,724 acres were treated, 740,386 of which were by truck. Adulticide: Treatment of adult mosquitoes that have matured and are flying. For adulticide products used by ground and air see below.
4. Public Education: Ongoing public education is vital in the war against mosquitoes. The Citizens' Awareness Program (CAP) is designed to provide as many residents as possible with educational materials and information regarding mosquitoes. Mosquito Control personnel inspect yards for mosquito breeding; answer questions; and regularly participate in various school science events, and Earth Day. Frequent requests are also received from Homeowners' Associations and other public interest groups.