High-tech drones are being used to spray mosquito-killing juice over wetlands in Salt Lake City, helping to keep West Nile virus at bay. The Mosquito Abatement District is using these precision-flying machines to target mosquito breeding grounds and prevent the spread of the disease.
Mosquitoes, which have been around since dinosaurs, pose a significant threat to human health, with West Nile virus spreading when infected mosquitoes bite. However, drones are providing an effective solution to this problem, spraying Natular G30 over hard-to-reach wetlands without disturbing the environment.
The district is also using mosquitofish, which chomp mosquito larvae in ponds, as part of their efforts to control mosquito populations. But drones are the star players, with Utah proving that these flying machines can be used for real-world problems beyond just aerial photography.
This technology has big picture implications, such as tracking invasive species or delivering vaccines in remote areas. It shows that drones are not just a fun hobby but also legitimate tools for tackling real-world issues. As one UAV pilot said, “Drones are heroes in disguise,” and this Utah project is proof of their potential to make a positive impact.
The use of drones in mosquito control has the potential to inspire more drone innovation, with the same systems potentially being used to fight other pests or monitor wildlife. The project also highlights the importance of responsible drone use, demonstrating that flying machines can be used for good and to protect people’s health.
Source: https://dronexl.co/2025/08/12/drones-buzz-utah-skies-to-zap-mosquitoes