Mission Statement

At the Merced County Mosquito Abatement District, our mission is to protect public health and enhance the quality of life for our communities by effectively controlling mosquitoes and reducing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

As a publicly funded special district, we proudly serve Merced County through our integrated vector management (IVM) program, a science-based approach that uses a combination of methods to control mosquito populations. IVM includes the following key components:

• Public Education: Empowering the community with the knowledge to protect themselves from mosquitoes.
• Surveillance and Monitoring: Continuously monitoring mosquito populations throughout the county to identify potential problem areas.
• Disease Diagnostics: Collection of mosquitoes for testing to detect mosquito-borne diseases and assess public health risks.
• Source Reduction: Removing or reducing mosquito breeding sources to control populations.
• Source Treatment: Applying biological and chemical control methods to target mosquito populations effectively, in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.

Through proactive surveillance, proven treatment programs, and public engagement, we work to ensure the health and safety of our residents.

Since 1946, we have been dedicated to keeping Merced County safe, informed, and protected from the risks associated with mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases.

Our History

Mosquito control efforts in Merced County began in 1923, sparked by expanding irrigation systems and a growing population. What started as a one-man operation covering just 17 square miles north of Merced steadily evolved to meet the county’s needs. By 1941, mosquito control operations had grown to cover 90 square miles and additional help was brought on board.

In 1945, Merced County residents voted to officially establish the Merced County Mosquito Abatement District, which began limited county-wide operations in the spring of 1946. By 1947, the District was operating at full capacity, providing comprehensive mosquito control services to all areas of the county.

Today, our team of 20 dedicated professionals carries on this vital mission, safeguarding public health throughout the region. In April 2025, we marked a major milestone with the completion of our new, state-of-the-art facility—built to support our work for decades to come. With nearly 80 years of service behind us, we’re proud to continue protecting the people of Merced County from mosquito-borne diseases.