Aerial mosquito spraying in coastal areas of Beaufort County takes place Wednesday or Thursday evening to help combat the dramatic increase in mosquito populations as a result of rains from Hurricane Irene.

Weather permitting, aerial spraying will take place approximately ½ to ¾ of a mile inland from all rivers and creeks extending from Leechville near the Hyde County line south to the Camp Leech Estates/Duck Creek area in the northern half of the county. This will include the areas of Belhaven, Pantego, Pamlico Beach and Bath. On the south side of the Pamlico, the areas near Hickory Point, Jarvis Landing, Canady Landing, Spring Creek Road, Windsong Subdivisions, Royal and Aurora will be sprayed. The spraying will be conducted from 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

The areas were chosen based on their population densities and conditions after the hurricane, which contributed to an increased health risk from significant mosquito breeding. Truck-mounted ground spraying will continue in other areas of the county that are not included in this aerial application.

Spraying will be accomplished with a low-volume application of the insecticide Duet.

Beekeepers should cover hives with damp cloth or burlap to protect bee populations during spraying.  Aerial applicators will maintain a 1,000-foot setback from all commercial aquaculture facilities within the county.