The state Department of Environmental Protection is beginning its Black Fly Suppression Program, monitoring and treating 48 rivers and streams spanning more than 1,800 miles. The program involves aerial and backpack spraying to control nuisance black fly populations.  

Spraying activities will be performed on flowing sections of the river containing the pest species by both helicopter and DEP ground crews. Prior to any spraying activity, DEP notifies county and local emergency management officials. Helicopters may be seen spraying material over waterways and ground crews may be seen applying material from bridges and wading in streams. To learn more about the program and for spray notifications, click here for DEP’s Vector Management website and here for the DEP Black Fly Suppression program.