Characterization of Sequential Aerial Malathion Applications in the Santa Clara Valley of California, 1981

摘要

The aerial application of baited malathion has been used to eradicate infestations of Mediterranean Fruit Fly in Florida (1956-1957, 1962-1963) and Texas (1966), but the scientific literature contains little information describing the environmental impact of the spray. A Mediterranean Fruit Fly infestation was detected in Santa Clara County, California in June, 1980. The infestation persisted despite ground-oriented eradication attempts that extended into 1981 when increased adult trapping and larval finds dictated the use of aerial sprays. The Environmental Hazards Assessment Program, California Department of Food and Agriculture, was asked to develop an environmental monitoring protocol to define the impact of multiple aerial applications of baited malathion on an urban environment.