PR in the War Against Anopheles – On Site at Lee County Mosquito Control

Activities of the Lee County Mosquito Control District are making headlines this month as the threat of the mosquito-born Zika virus grows. LCMCD is a Lee County government agency funded by ad valorem taxes. According to one of its elected board members, it is the largest single county mosquito control program in the United States, with an annual budget of approximately $24 million. LCMCD is “committed to improving the quality of life facilitating outdoor activities and protecting the public health in our community by implementing environmentally sound practices that control mosquitoes throughout Lee County.” The District operates a fleet of large aircraft and helicopters for aerial spraying; field testing capability for monitoring mosquito activities; laboratories; and an extensive communications effort including websites, school programs and media outreach to inform the public about district activities and proper strategies for reducing mosquito populations.

Our host for the meeting is Shelly Redovan, deputy director of the Lee County Mosquito Control District. Redovan will describe the strategies and resources used to manage communications for the district, with some special insight into the challenges faced with the Zika virus. She will present a video that illustrates the vast scope of the district and will offer a brief tour of the facility located at Buckingham Airfield.

Agenda
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
11 a.m. – new member orientation
11:30 a.m. – program begins
1 p.m. – program adjourns (although some attendees may wish to remain for additional tour)

Location
Lee County Mosquito Control District
Board and Training Room
15191 Homestead Road
Lehigh Acres FL 33971

Speaker

Shelly Redovan, deputy director of the Lee County Mosquito Control District is responsible for education and communication, including public relations. Redovan has a background in science, with a bachelor’s degree from Stetson University in biology and hematology and additional holds her Certified District Manager (CDM) certification from Florida State University. A 21 year employee of the LCMCD, She previously served for 12 years as the director of the Charlotte County Mosquito Control program. She is also active in the Florida Mosquito Control Association, serving as its current executive director.