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ABOUT THE TASD - Mosquito ControlOrganization
Current AffairsA total of 23 human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) were reported from Ohio in 2007, with two occurring in Lucas County. Eight WNV-positive mosquito pools were collected in Lucas County, from a statewide total of 324 pools. Dead birds which tested positive for WNV were again found in Lucas County, with American crows and blue jays being of particular concern. These two bird species, along with other members of the Corvidae bird family, are very susceptible to WNV; although many other kinds of birds also may become sick and die from the disease. West Nile virus continued to be widespread throughout almost all of the continental states in 2007, with 43 states reporting 3,404 human cases. Colorado had the highest number of cases, 544, with other leading states being California, North and South Dakota, and Wyoming. Ohio was first exposed to WNV in 2001 in the form of several hundred dead birds and about two dozen WNV-positive mosquito pools (groups of 1 to 50 mosquitoes of the same species). The WNV disease trend continued at an alarming rate in 2002 as Ohio reported 441 human cases of WNV, with 31 deaths. Thirteen human cases of WNV were reported from Lucas County in 2002, fortunately with no deaths. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that the 2002 West Nile virus epidemic was the largest mosquito-borne disease outbreak ever documented in the western hemisphere. Although overshadowed by WNV, other arboviruses may also be found in the Midwest: St. Louis encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis and LaCrosse virus. The District maintains an active surveillance program for arboviruses, and mosquitoes are routinely sent to the Ohio Department of Health for testing. The suspected primary vector of WNV, Culex pipiens, is commonly found in Toledo and the Midwest. Although collected infrequently from light traps, Ochlerotatus triseriatus is the primary vector of LaCrosse virus in Ohio and may also play an important role in the transmission of WNV to humans. This mosquito is commonly found breeding in tree holes and used tires in our area. Concern for the EnvironmentEveryone recognizes that mosquitoes are a nuisance, but few realize the magnitude of the health threat and economic impact they present. Mosquito eradication is impossible. Nevertheless, much can be done to control these pests without harming humans, wildlife, or the environment. At the District headquarters, Canada geese and mallard ducks are frequent visitors to the two large fish ponds, along with occasional visits from green herons, great blue herons, and great egrets. Advisory CommitteeAlthough not provided for in the Sanitary District statutes, a volunteer citizen's advisory committee has been appointed by the Director. The oversight and suggestions from this committee has greatly helped the TASD fulfill its mission. Current board members are: Catherine Gordon, Conservationist Dr. Gary F. Bennett, Professor Emeritus, Biochemical Engineering, University of Toledo Thomas Kovacik, Kovacik Consulting Dr. Donald T. Knepper, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Jennie Lambert, Executive Director, Ernst & Young Dr. C. Lee Rockett, Professor of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University Konni Sutfield, Supervisor, Toledo-Lucas County Health Department Louis M. Thompson, Jr., Retired Director of Labor Management Committee, City of Toledo Amy K. Stone, OSU Extension Educator, Consumer & Urban Horticulture ConsultantsMichael K. Hart, Public Information Richard A. Cohen, Legal Counsel |
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Under
authority of the Sanitary District Act of Ohio, the Toledo Area Sanitary
District (TASD) was started Sept. 27, 1945, by the Common Pleas Court
of Lucas County following petition to the Court for the establishment
of the District for the abatement and control of mosquitoes. It became
operational in 1946 and actual control operations began in 1947. In
accordance with the statue, responsibility for policy determination
for the TASD resides with the director appointed by the judges of the
Common Pleas Court. The secretary - treasurer and general manager are
appointed by the director.