The Mosquito and Research Control Unit has introduced drone technology to help reduce Cayman’s mosquito population.
The MRCU drone was first deployed last week after crews discovered high numbers of mosquito larvae breeding in swamp areas.
Speaking to Compass TV, MRCU Director Alan Wheeler explained, “It’s a new capability for us. This drone can carry 40-pound loads. We typically treat, let’s say, an application rate of 10 pounds an acre, so the drone can treat four acres.”
Wheeler said the drone is used to complement the fixed-wing aircraft since it can reach small swamp areas.
“A good example would be the area near the roundabout in West Bay,” he said. “It’s a heavy breeding site. It’s very difficult to hit by fixed-wing aircraft. The drone is perfect; it can just slowly treat that area right up to the edges.”
In order to operate the drone, staff need to be trained. Wheeler added, “We are training Caymanians, I am really proud of our staff. I think we have four or five people trained up.
“It’s a very difficult training programme. We comply fully with Cayman and US regulations, so we have to send our pilots overseas to sit the Part 107 exam, so we’re not just sending people out there with a drone; we are making sure they are full trained and competent before they go out.”
Cole Morgan, MRCU research officer, said the initiative is groundbreaking, adding, “It’s not just for us, but for the whole world of mosquito control. It’s really cool and interesting to be part of the forefront of an emerging technology and being able to see what we can do here.”
Andre Yates, MRCU disease prevention officer, agreed, saying, “I really believe that the drone programme here can bring mosquito control very far, and it serves a huge purpose here for the islands as well.”
While the drone programme has only been around for a short while, Wheeler said results are promising, “I’m happy with what I have seen. I think it’s going to be a very useful new addition to MRCU’s capabilities – the drone programme [is] looking good so far.”
Related Videos
