Potomac River Treatment

100 W. Washington Street, Suite 1401

Hagerstown, MD 21740 | 240.313.2380

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Danielle Crabb, Director

Phone: 240-313-2384

Email: dcrabb@washco-md.net

POTOMAC RIVER TREATMENT

Maryland agencies to treat Potomac River for Black Fly Control

HAGERSTOWN, MD (May 1, 2018) – Washington County Government would like to notify all citizens that the Maryland Department of Agriculture , in partnership with the Department of Natural Resources , will treat a targeted area of the Potomac River in Washington County. This is part of the Black Fly Suppression Pilot Program to control black fly populations in the area. Treatment is scheduled for Wednesday, May 2, beginning at 8 a.m.

The department will apply a Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti)-based larvicide via helicopter (Bell 206 Long Ranger, green and white paint scheme. Tail number N641HA). Bti is a naturally occurring bacteria found in soils worldwide. It is a bacterial insecticide, not a chemical, and is only harmful to a very limited variety of organisms including midge, black fly, mosquito larvae and a few other aquatic Dipteran (flies) insects.

The treatment may cause temporary discoloration of the water, but it is completely nontoxic and is not harmful to humans, fish, crabs, or other aquatic invertebrates.

For additional information contact Public Relations and Marketing Director Danielle Crabb

at 240-313-2384.

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About Washington County, Maryland Government

Washington County, Maryland Government strives to fulfill its duty to the citizens of Washington County with regard to operational efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and responsiveness to the needs of the community. This vision is used to ably assist the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County in achieving goals for moving the County forward as present needs and future plans are addressed.

According to the Maryland Department of Legislative Services, the Washington County General Fund has one of the lowest costs per capita for services provided of all 23 counties and Baltimore City. This is attributed to the efficiency, staffing levels, and cost containment exhibited in Washington County Government operations. Visit www.washco-md.net for more information.