Seasonal staff with the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) have begun working in Minnetonka and throughout the seven-county metro area to reduce mosquito populations and protect people from diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks. Based on weather forecasts and other data, MMCD predicts 2026 will be an average year, with a high number of cattail mosquitoes emerging in early July. Field technicians will work with the entomology lab to identify mosquito “hot spots.”

Each year, the start of mosquito season depends on snowmelt, rainfall, air temperatures and other factors. This year, seasonal field staff began working April 13. Residents may notice green or white trucks with the MMCD logo, as well as staff on bikes or on foot wearing high-visibility vests. Helicopter treatments are expected to begin the week of April 20.

At times, MMCD employees may need to cross private property to access and inspect areas for mosquito larvae. For questions or concerns, call the MMCD front desk at 651-645-9149 or visit MMCD.org.

MMCD activities in your community may include:

• Wetland surveillance: Checking ponds and swamps for mosquito larvae.

• Catch basin surveillance: Inspecting neighborhood catch basins for larvae.

• Ground larval treatments: Applying control materials by hand or with a backpack.

• Helicopter larval treatments: Applying control materials to wetlands by helicopter.

• Drone larval treatments: Applying control materials via unmanned aircraft systems.

• Trap setting and collection: Monitoring mosquito populations and species.

Control materials and methods used by MMCD are regularly tested for safety and applied only when effective. Larval control — the most common treatment — uses granules or pellets applied to standing water. Active ingredients target mosquito larvae or adults while minimizing impacts on other insects and are not harmful to people, pets or wildlife.

For a complete list of control materials, visit MMCD.org. Scheduled treatments, including helicopter activity, are posted daily on the MMCD website. Residents can also sign up for email alerts. For more information about MMCD programs or tips to reduce mosquitoes near your home, visit MMCD.org.