New Jersey Mosquito Control Association Inc.

The New Jersey Mosquito Control Association Inc. (NJMCA) is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting effective and environmentally sound mosquito control practices in New Jersey. Founded in 1913 as the New Jersey Mosquito Extermination Association, the organization changed its name to the New Jersey Mosquito Control Association in 1974, reflecting its evolving mission and practices in the management of mosquito populations and the diseases they transmit.

Mission and Objectives

NJMCA's primary mission is to protect the health and welfare of New Jersey citizens by advocating for responsible mosquito control methods. This includes:

• Surveillance and Research: The association conducts and encourages ongoing research on mosquito biology, behavior, and control methods. It aims to enhance the effectiveness of mosquito management practices statewide.

• Public Education: NJMCA promotes public awareness about the importance of organized mosquito control efforts, striving to educate communities on reducing breeding sites and minimizing the use of unsafe pesticide applications.

• Collaboration with Agencies: NJMCA works closely with various stakeholders, including county mosquito control agencies, state government bodies, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to develop and implement effective mosquito control strategies.

History

The roots of NJMCA can be traced back to the early 20th century when serious public health concerns regarding mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever, prompted the establishment of organized control efforts. The organization was initially founded to address these issues through scientific methods and coordinated action.

In 1912, legislative measures established county mosquito extermination commissions, laying the groundwork for systematic mosquito control in New Jersey. The NJMCA has played a crucial role in fostering a collaborative approach to mosquito management, exemplified by its involvement in the creation of the American Mosquito Control Association in 1935, which has since become a leading authority in mosquito control nationally.

Current Activities

NJMCA continues to advocate for advancements in integrated pest management (IPM) practices, focusing on minimizing chemical pesticides and enhancing ecological approaches to mosquito control. The association organizes annual meetings and symposiums where experts share research findings, operational successes, and innovative strategies for mosquito management.

Additionally, NJMCA offers research and development mini-grants to stimulate new research initiatives within its community, furthering its commitment to scientific advancement and public health.

Impact

Through its efforts, NJMCA has established itself as a leader in the mosquito control community, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and community engagement. The association's initiatives have significantly contributed to reducing mosquito populations and mitigating the public health risks associated with mosquito-borne diseases in New Jersey.

In summary, the New Jersey Mosquito Control Association Inc. remains dedicated to its mission of promoting safe, effective, and environmentally responsible mosquito control practices, ensuring the health and safety of New Jersey's residents.

[1] https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/DownloadFile/164481 [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Mosquito_Control_Association [3] https://njaes.rutgers.edu/mosquito/history.php [4] https://njmca.org [5] https://vectorbio.rutgers.edu/outreach/wiab.php