The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 05/06/2014 - ITEMS RELATING TO THE WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT PAgenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 1 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY May 6, 2014 City Council STAFF Dan Weinheimer, Policy & Project Manager Mike Calhoon, Parks Supervisor SUBJECT Items Relating to the West Nile Virus Management Plan. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 063, 2014, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the General Fund to Fund Enhancements to the Fort Collins West Nile Virus Management Program for the 2014 Season. B. Discussion of West Nile Virus Management Plan Options. Ordinance No. 063, 2014, unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 15, 2014, appropriates funds to execute the city’s West Nile Virus Management Program. Additional funds, amounting to $75,100, are appropriated to enhance the public outreach program, increase the city’s larval control boundary and allow for a more flexible larval control season. Staff also seeks Council input as to which options it prefers to consider adding to the West Nile Virus Management Plan. Options include Technical Advisory Committee recommendations for an opt-out program, implementation of zones, updates to the operational guidelines, and the Advisory Panel process. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on Second Reading. Staff recommends approval of options that would remove the use of human cases as a threshold for action in the operational guidelines but maintain the vector index threshold at the current level of 0.75; adopt a four (4) zone adulticide application approach; implement an opt-out for impacted businesses with education and maintain the pesticide sensitivity registry opt-out; and TAC recommended improvements to the Advisory Panel with the option to allow "current or former" City administrative board or commission member participation. BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION Background West Nile Virus has been in Colorado since 2002 and the threat of disease transmission is now an annual concern. West Nile Virus is a disease transmitted to humans by Culex mosquitoes, which are the vector (source of transmission). West Nile Virus (WNV) infected mosquitoes infect birds, which can then be bitten by many uninfected mosquitoes, greatly amplifying vector abundance. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. About 1 in 5 (20-25 percent) people who are infected will develop a fever with other symptoms. Less than 1 percent of people who are infected will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis (inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues). (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (CDC DVBD) information) Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 2 Fort Collins utilizes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-recommended Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to address WNV. IPM consists of a comprehensive series of evaluations, decisions and controls to pest management with the goal of providing the safest, most effective, most economical, and sustained remedy. IPM reduces the risk from pests while also reducing the risk from the overuse or inappropriate use of hazardous chemical pest-control products. Every year the City convenes a WNV Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to review the previous season’s activities and recommend modifications to the WNV Management Program Policy. This plan, do, check, act (PDCA) cycle instills continuous improvement in the WNV Management Program. Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Information Since the arrival of WNV in Fort Collins in 2003, the City has used community expertise to inform its WNV Management Program. In 2007, the TAC was formed at the direction of the City Manager. Volunteers are appointed by the City Manager and provide feedback on the WNV Management Program. The current program design - program response guidelines, three-member Advisory Panel and other policies have been developed through the TAC evaluation process. Each year the TAC convenes to review and consider modifications to the program. In the winter of 2013, the TAC membership expanded to ten members, to include Meghan Williams, co-owner of Spring Kite Farms, and Dana Kunze, founder of the No Spray Fort Collins Facebook site. These new members added additional important perspectives representing urban agriculture, beekeepers, and citizens with pesticide sensitivities. Other TAC members include Lars Eisen, Boris Kondratieff, Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, Eric Levine, Greg McMaster, Chester G. Moore, Roger Nasci and Elizabeth Pruessner. While not representing their employers on the TAC, members include internationally recognized experts on vector-borne diseases, entomology and public health issues. The TAC has held eight (8) regular public meetings since December 2013. Each meeting has been two hours, included a public comment period and had publicly available agendas and minutes. Discussion has included a review of the 2013 program response guidelines, the issue of adulticide applications and the City’s draft program manual. TAC members recommended improvements to the West Nile Management Program including additional public communication, increasing the larval control boundary, additional funding to allow for a weather-based larval control program, leveraging existing resources for source reduction, and engaging governmental entities through a Vector Control District. Recommendations Matrix Staff Recommendation Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Program Response Guidelines Remove human cases as threshold and maintain the vector index at 0.75 Maintain as-is Remove human cases as threshold Raise vector index threshold (currently 0.75) Lower vector index threshold Opt-out program Implement opt-out for businesses with education AND pesticide sensitivity registry Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 3 Zones Implement four zones in 2014 No zones, entire City is one “zone” Three to four zones Seven zones Flexible zones defined by areas with high infected mosquito rates Advisory Panel Adopt TAC recommendations and allow “current and former” City Board and commission members Adopt TAC consensus recommendations Implement a term limit to the Advisory Panel Allow “current or former” City Board and commission members to participate Program Response Guidelines Staff Recommendation Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Program Response Guidelines Remove human cases as threshold and maintain the vector index at 0.75 Maintain as-is Remove human cases as threshold Raise vector index threshold (currently 0.75) Lower vector index threshold TAC members discussed several issues related to the program response guidelines - the document which establishes thresholds for specific actions in City mosquito control operations. The program response Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 4 significantly after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. Given the disease-prevention purpose of the program, this means an outbreak could occur at least two weeks before the City could take action. Human case thresholds lag more than other information - the vector index is calculated weekly and so it is a better estimation of virus risk to residents. A great deal of TAC discussion focused on Levels III and IV of the administrative program response guidelines- the peak season and emergency level responses - where an operational response might include an adulticide application. At Level III, the framework includes the use of human cases as a threshold. The Level III program response guideline language requires: More than one human case being reported per week in Fort Collins - OR - More than one positive human blood donor reported for the season. -AND- Culex mosquito populations increasing and at or above historical average by 1 standard deviation for that time period- OR - Mosquito infection rates of > 3.0 per thousand (0.3 percent) and increasing - OR - Vector index > 0.75 and increasing Additionally, the TAC reviewed the use of blood donor cases - the program response guidelines specify the use of one transmission identified by a blood donor per season as a threshold. TAC members noted that this indicator does not reflect community virus amplitude or local activity mainly because of the frequency of blood drives in Fort Collins during the WNV season. Additionally, a different test is used for donated blood than is used to diagnose WNV and the test is only effective a short time after infection. Some TAC members favor eliminating this indicator or having a weighted ranking for use in decision-making. Raise vector index (VI) threshold The vector index (VI) is a measure calculated to estimate the average number of WNV-infected mosquitoes collected per trap night (i.e., summation of the average number Culex mosquitoes collected per trap night and the proportion infected for each species). Fort Collins uses a 0.75 vector index in its current program response guidelines to determine the threshold when a WNV outbreak may be occurring. The vector index had been 0.5 from 2007 to 2012 but, as part of the annual program evaluation (PDCA), a decision was made to raise the index in 2013 to 0.75. The decision to raise the index threshold increases community risk of virus transmission by requiring a higher abundance of infected mosquitoes before a pesticide intervention. The TAC discussed raising the vector index even further - to 1.0. Lowering the vector index (VI) threshold) Lowering the vector index from 0.75 to 0.5 was recommended by the Larimer County Health Department Director. Lowering this threshold would make it easier to use adulticide when it would be most effective to reduce the risk of disease transmission to humans. The 0.50 vector index was used as the threshold in the Fort Collins program from 2007 to 2012. Some TAC members expressed concern that lowering the threshold would result in more adulticide applications in Fort Collins. Staff recommendation Staff recommends removing from the program response guidelines a requirement for the use of human cases as a threshold and to maintain the vector index at 0.75. This recommendation is consistent with the Management Policy to execute a program that reduces the incidence of City residents contracting WNV. Removing human cases will make the City’s response to a disease outbreak faster and, in concert with the Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 5 zone approach, could mean that a response would swiftly target the specific area(s) where WNV-infected mosquitoes are high. MOTION OPTIONS Human Case and Vector Index Thresholds, and Program Response Guidelines 1. The motion language to propose Council action based on the staff recommendation to remove human cases as a mandatory threshold is item 3.a. on the Sample Motions (Attachment 8); 2. The motion language to propose Council action to raise the vector index is item 3.b. on the Sample Motions attachment; 3. The motion language to propose Council action to lower the vector index is item 3.c. on the Sample Motions attachment. 4. The motion language to propose Council action to direct the City Manager to present an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that includes Program Response Guidelines is item 3.d. on the Sample Motions attachment. Opt-out program Staff Recommendation Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Opt-out program Implement opt-out for businesses with education AND pesticide sensitivity registry No opt-out at all Pesticide Sensitivity Registry opt- out only Opt-out registered businesses with education Voluntary opt- out with education TAC members were unable to reach a consensus on a recommendation for an opt-out program. While many states have passed laws preventing anyone from excluding themselves from a pesticide application a simple headlines search shows that there is a growing national movement of people seeking to opt-out of community- wide pesticide spraying. Voluntary opt-out The concept for a voluntary program came from a TAC member who cited that private property is sprayed with a pesticide without providing citizens the option as to whether they wished to participate. As suggested by that TAC member, in order to participate in the voluntary program a resident would have a backyard consultation with City staff about source reduction actions that could be taken, complete additional education either through a group class or through video education, and receive a one-year opt-out from adulticide applications. Other TAC members expressed concern that while the education would be helpful in preventing backyard larval sites, the voluntary opt-out from adulticide applications will create untreated harborage for infected mosquitoes that can extend significantly beyond the boundaries of the “opted-out” property, decreasing the effectiveness of spraying and putting neighbors at risk of contracting WNV without their consent. Allowing a voluntary opt-out creates an impact to neighbors – the City’s current policy is to provide a 300-500 foot buffer for pesticide sensitive households – that could range from 10 neighboring homes in less dense areas and up to 100 homes in densely populated areas. TAC discussion also questioned whether an opt-out program would actually result in no pesticide impacting a residents’ property given the aerosolized pesticide and weather patterns that disperse the adulticide. This option would require hiring one more technician to perform inspection and education throughout the annual season. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 6 Business opt-out The TAC representative for urban agriculture described concerns of food producers - that covering even small farms to protect them from being sprayed with a pesticide is not feasible. Fort Collins has twenty-six (26) registered community supported agriculture (CSA) farms producing fruit, vegetables and herbs for sale at Farmers Market, wholesale and farm stand. TAC members also described a similar challenge in covering bee hives used both for personal use and for sale. Bees are susceptible to the pesticide sprayed in an adulticide application but the City attempts to minimize impacts to bees by spraying after dusk when most bees are back in the hive. Still, TAC members expressed concern that best management practices for beekeepers to protect their hives do not exist. Staff has committed to working with CSU and others to develop a suite of best management practices for beekeepers. Staff is also aware that some research laboratories at CSU may be impacted by spraying near campus buildings. One option for an opt-out is for registered businesses - agriculture, beekeepers, and research facilities - to prevent interference with those businesses. This option would also require each business to participate in source reduction and personal protection education. Businesses would need to demonstrate a direct, long-term financial hardship from the pesticide application in order to participate in the opt-out - the intent of the opt-out is to provide relief from financial losses. While additional work would be needed to develop the exact parameters of this opt-out, the intent is to address concerns about impacting scientific research and anecdotal evidence that consumers are less willing to purchase produce when they know that a farm has been subject to a pesticide application. This option would also require an additional technician to perform inspection and education throughout the annual season. Some TAC members questioned whether the commercial interests of a business outweigh increasing disease transmission risks to entire neighborhoods of the city. Pesticide Sensitivity Registry opt-out The current program allows only those registered on the state’s pesticide sensitivity registry to opt-out of an adulticide application. To be placed on the state’s registry a certificate must be signed by a physician licensed to practice medicine in the State of Colorado stating that you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to pesticides. Fort Collins has about 15 homes listed on the pesticide sensitivity registry. Those homes are, depending on weather conditions, provided a 300 to 500 foot buffer where spraying is terminated. Staff works with Colorado Mosquito Control (CMC), the City’s contractor, to ensure that these pesticide sensitive residents are protected. TAC members discussed evidence, depending on density, that providing this opt-out to one home can exclude from 10 to 100 other homes from an adulticide application. Further, there is concern that those excluded from the pesticide application are unaware of their exclusion because the name and residence of those on the pesticide sensitivity registry is confidential. Some TAC members advocated for a notification to all properties excluded from an adulticide application; this may prove operationally not feasible. No opt-out While the City allows applicants to the state’s program to opt-out this is not a legal requirement. The registry maintained by the Colorado Department of Agriculture does not pertain to mosquito spraying, or any pesticide applications other than those made to control pests of lawns, trees and shrubs. The state registry does not prevent application of pesticides but only requires that commercial applicators (like lawn care companies) notify people on the registry 24 hours before an application is made to abutting property (immediately adjacent property that touches yours) so that you can leave for a period of time or make other preparations for the application. TAC members discussed the concept of eliminating any opt-out since Fort Collins is unique in offering a pesticide sensitivity registry opt-out. The argument for no opt-out has to do with efficacy of the adulticide application. A complete adulticide application of the spray area ensures that more adult mosquitoes carrying WNV are killed, reducing the likelihood of disease transmission. With an opt-out it is possible for more mosquitoes to avoid the pesticide. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 7 Staff Recommendation Staff recommends maintaining the use of an opt-out for residents on the pesticide sensitivity registry and to add an opt-out for specific businesses that may experience financial loss from adulticide applications. The intent of these opt-outs is to cover those individuals with a medically-identified reason to avoid exposure and to limit business impact to farmers, commercial beekeepers, and some research laboratories. This recommendation follows with the Management Policy direction to “limit adverse human health impacts.” MOTION OPTIONS Residential and Business Opt-Outs 1. The motion language to propose Council action based on the staff recommendation for a pesticide- sensitive registry opt-out is item 1.a.i. on the Sample Motions (Attachment 8); 2. The motion language to propose Council action based on the staff recommendation for a business hardship opt-out is item 1.a.ii. on the Sample Motions attachment; 3. The motion language to propose Council action to provide a voluntary opt-out with condition of specific education is item 1.a.iii. on the Sample Motions attachment. Treatment Zones Staff Recommendation Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Zones Implement four zones in 2014 No zones, entire City is one “zone” Three to four zones Seven zones TAC members discussed the use of zones in implementing the City’s WNV Management Program. Generally, the TAC supports the concept of using zones. Breaking the City into smaller areas using topographic and historical program data could create a more effective WNV Management Program. Historical information indicates that mosquito activity is usually highest beginning in the southeast of Fort Collins and along the eastern border - near I-25. A zone approach could allow for additional public information, larval control, source reduction efforts, and adulticide intervention in these areas. In developing the zone approach the TAC reached out to a Colorado State University (CSU) statistician who may be able to assist TAC members in designing the optimal number and size of zones to ensure that the zones are small but still have enough of traps within each zone to be statistically confident in the vector index calculation. The City would be able to affect the number and size of zones based on the number of traps in the field - more traps in the data network could result in more, smaller zones. Each zone would be subject to the same program response guideline thresholds before an adulticide application would be recommended to break the transmission cycle. A potential downside for using zones is that some areas of town could be subject to more frequent annual adulticide applications whereas other areas might never be sprayed. Some TAC members have expressed that spraying a smaller area more often is not a preferable alternative to spraying the larger area less often. Other TAC members have expressed that it makes sense to do control in a timely manner where the risk of WNV is highest, possibly decreasing the need to spray larger areas. One Zone (entire city) This option does not implement zones for 2014. The reason this option is being offered is that the TAC has not yet received information from the CSU statistician about the appropriate zone configuration. Adopting one zone could mean citywide adulticide applications if necessary in 2014. Applying the program citywide is less responsive to the vector index and mosquito trap data and limits the ability to provide a targeted response to hot spots. This option could result in a larger area to be subject to a pesticide application. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 8 Three to Four Zones The initial recommendation from the CSU statistician - without analyzing the program details - was for three to four zones. While the statistician has not delivered a detailed recommendation, this option divides the City into three to four zones based on historical data. Adopting zones would apply to all aspects of the program, not just a pesticide application, allowing targeted communication and larval control in areas where the data network demonstrates higher human health risks. The three to four zones would reduce the area subject to an adulticide application, focus the program on areas with a high vector index number, and allow for prompt response to an increased disease transmission risk. Seven Zones The Larimer County Health Department presented the TAC with 2013 data in seven zones. This was suggested to make it easier to calculate vector indexes for defined areas. The zones are smaller geographic areas (approximately 9,000 to 45,000 people) and using this strategy could mean the City would be applying adulticide primarily where the infected mosquito populations are highest. There are parts of Fort Collins that may be sprayed more often due to the presence of more infected mosquitoes in those areas, while other zones would be only sprayed during outbreak scenarios because their vector index historically has been low. Flexible Zones The concept of “flexible zones” was discussed by the TAC with several members in support. Flexible zones could move each week to ensure the highest risk areas are appropriately treated. This option would work best after consultation with the CSU statistician to determine the appropriate number of traps necessary to calculate a statistically valid vector index. Some work will have to be done to determine the right size - both how large a zone could get and what parameters for changing the area considered. This approach was used in 2004, 2007, and 2012 but calculating the vector index for varying zones was challenging since the calculation may use different trap locations each time. Finally, the flexible zones could be challenging to communicate with residents - rather than residing in a set zone, each spray operation a resident might have to search for their address and whether it is going to be in the adulticide application area. Flexible zones would be an option to explore for future implementation but are not a staff recommendation for the 2014 season. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends adopting a zone strategy in 2014 while a more formal review of the use of zones continues. Zones allow a more targeted application of City’s program and specifically the program response guideline thresholds. Staff proposes four zones - using College Avenue and Drake to divide the City into quadrants. Historical data demonstrates that some areas of Fort Collins have higher activity than others - these areas might be subject to an adulticide application more often. The use of a four (4) zone approach reduces the size of the zones and therefore the area subject to an adulticide application. MOTION OPTIONS Treatment Zones 1. The motion language to propose Council action based on the staff recommendation to create four (4) treatment zones is item 1.b.i. on the Sample Motions (Attachment 8); 2. The motion language to propose Council action based on the Larimer County Health Department suggestion to create seven (7) treatment zones is item 1.b.ii. on the Sample Motions attachment. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 9 Advisory Panel Staff Recommendation Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Advisory Panel Adopt TAC recommendations and allow “current or former” City Board or Commission members Adopt TAC consensus recommendations Implement a term limit to the Advisory Panel Allow “current or former” City Board or Commission members to participate The WNV Management Program and Policy stipulate the use of a three-member Advisory Panel in weekly review of in-season data and in evaluating the Larimer County Health Department's recommendations for an adulticide application. The City Manager’s practice has been to appoint the Panel members from the Natural Resources Advisory Board, Air Quality Advisory Board and the Fort Collins medical community. Eliminating the Advisory Panel completely would require a City Council action to amend the existing West Nile Virus Management Policy. TAC members achieved consensus recommendations about the Advisory Panel as follows: Staff should develop a brief Advisory Panel Manual to clarify roles and responsibilities Advisory Panel information should be transparent Panel members should participate in the TAC meetings Transparency was a very important issue to the TAC; members recommended ensuring weekly virus activity provided to the Panel, the adulticide recommendations from the Larimer County Health Director and the Panel recommendations to the City Manager be published on the City’s website. Term Limits Service on City boards and commissions is generally term limited to two terms, under the City’s Boards and Commissions Manual, which effectively imposes a term limit on two of the three Advisory Panel members under the City Manager’s present practice of appointing to City board members to the Advisory Panel. This same term limit has not been applied to the representative of the medical community, through this interpretation is not yet written into the WNV Management Plan or Policy. TAC members discussed whether a term limit on the Advisory Panel is a good thing. Generally, institutional knowledge of the program is helpful in reviewing the data and making a recommendation to the City Manager. Rather than establishing a uniform term limit, the TAC discussed altering the Policy as applied and documenting in the WNV Management Policy that “current or former” members of the two boards may participate, irrespective of prior or ongoing terms of service with those other administrative bodies. Panel Make-up In addition to the consensus suggestions, the TAC discussed how to foster a succession plan for the Advisory Panel. This concept was raised in conjunction with the term limits topic. A suggestion was made that the Panel should consist of two members of the boards and two medical community members enlarging the Advisory Panel - but that only one “vote” would be offered to each cohort pair. This might be a method to develop some depth in understanding for future members of the Advisory Panel. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 10 Staff Recommendation Staff recommends adopting the consensus items from the TAC regarding the Advisory Panel and choosing to engage experienced Advisory Panel members by lifting de facto term limits on Boardmember participation and adopting qualification language to allow “current or former” board or commission members in order to allow informed and experienced Advisory Panel members the option to continue their service without formal term limits. This will enable the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board to have an opportunity for consultation with their Advisory Panel representative, while broadening the potential Panel pool. MOTION OPTIONS Advisory Panel Composition 1. The motion language to propose Council action based on the staff recommendation to eliminate Advisory Panel term limits is item 2.a. on the Sample Motions (Attachment 8); 2. The motion language to propose Council action to direct the City Manager to appoint current or former City advisory board members to the Advisory Panel is item 2.b. on the Sample Motions attachment; 3. The motion language to propose Council action to direct the City Manager to appoint current or former Natural Resources Advisory Board and Air Quality Advisory Board members is item 2.c. on the Sample Motions attachment. Additional Topics Bees TAC members recommended development of best management practices for beekeepers so they can protect hives from pesticide applications. Several TAC members keep bees and conversation on this topic indicated that knowledge and experience on hive protection varies. Given the presence of CSU expertise as well as Agriculture Extension and other resources, staff was asked to help convene development of best practices and to ensure publication of these recommendations. Program Evaluation TAC members recommended the City invest in an unbiased third-party expert to review the City's existing program and recommend enhancements. This recommendation was for an audit to include having a person work on optimal zone sizes, review the chemicals used in adulticide, evaluate the larval control program, develop a weighted program response guideline (the California model) and to evaluate detailed options for an opt-out program. This recommendation could come forward as a BFO enhancement offer. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Manager position TAC members expressed support for funding an IPM Manager position. An offer was submitted through Budgeting for Outcomes (BFO) for a position with responsibilities to include working with various departments to holistically reduce pesticide and herbicide use throughout the City. That offer is anticipated to come from Environmental Services and address more than just WNV management. This offer will have to advance through BFO before a staff person could be employed. FINANCIAL / ECONOMIC IMPACTS Adoption of Ordinance No. 063, 2014 will appropriate $75,100 for program enhancements. Adoption of certain WNV Management Program options may incur additional expenses by requiring additional staff to perform certain activities. Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 11 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Applying a pesticide in some or all of Fort Collins represents an environmental impact. This budget appropriation is anticipated to reduce the likelihood of needing an adulticide as well as larvacide application in the City. The larval control product used is deemed to have a low environmental impact but it does reduce the abundance of mosquito larvae which has a cascading impact on species which feed upon larvae and adult mosquitos. BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Staff has presented the 2014 season recommendations to the Parks and Recreation Board, Air Quality Advisory Board and to the Natural Resources Advisory Board for comment. ATTACHMENTS 1. First Reading Agenda Item Summary, April 15, 2014 (w/o attachments) (PDF) 2. July 2008 WNV Management Policy (PDF) 3. 2013 WNV Program Response Plan (PDF) 4. Role of WNV Advisory Committee (PDF) 5. Map of HOAs That Spray (PDF) 6. Program Manual, March 2014 (draft) (PDF) 7. Powerpoint presentation (PDF) 8. Sample Motions (DOCX) 9. Ordinance No. 063, 2014 (PDF) Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 1 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY April 15, 2014 City Council STAFF Dan Weinheimer, Policy & Project Manager Kelly DiMartino, Assistant City Manager Mike Calhoon, Parks Supervisor SUBJECT First Reading of Ordinance No. 063, 2014, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the General Fund to Fund Enhancements to the Fort Collins West Nile Virus Management Program for the 2014 Season. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this item is to appropriate funds to execute the City's West Nile Virus Management Program. Additional funds are sought to enhance the public outreach program, to increase the City's larval control boundary and to allow for a more flexible larval control season. In total, funds requested add $75,100 to the program budget. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading. BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION This budget appropriation would fund public education and outreach materials as well as larval management for the City's West Nile Virus Management Program. The additional funds support education and mitigation efforts aimed at reducing the likelihood for a pesticide application. Fort Collins' West Nile Virus Management Program uses an integrated pest management (IPM) approach which prioritizes steps that reduce the use of pesticides. The City's program emphasizes education and public information, source reduction on public and private property, and larval management ahead of a pesticide application. This appropriation reflects consensus items from the City's West Nile Virus Technical Advisor Committee (TAC) which has met from December through April, discussing ways to improve the operation of the City's program. In addition to the two areas of budget appropriation, the 2014 season will also include additional source reduction measures in cooperation with City staff groups - backyard inspections, planning and zoning, and Utilities - and with County and CSU Extension staff. The education and outreach appropriation is $17,500 and will enhance the current program. The budget enhancements will allow the City to promote its message, develop additional outreach tools and to extend when outreach could occur. It is hoped that this approach will help improve community members' understanding of the risks associated with West Nile virus and the personal protection steps individuals can take. Staff also expects to develop a video series explaining elements of the City's program and to maintain a program manual to further explain the City's program. Larval management is a proven mosquito management approach. The City contracts with Colorado Mosquito Control (CMC) to conduct West Nile virus management, including larval and adult mosquito control. The current larval program is conducted both within City limits and a boundary extending about one (1) mile to the ATTACHMENT 1 Agenda Item 16 Item # 16 Page 2 east outside of Fort Collins. The current season for larval management is limited by the program budget to June 1 to August 31. This budget appropriation will extend the boundary of larval management outside of Fort Collins' borders from one mile to approximately two to three miles. The appropriation would also fund a more flexible larval management season by allowing extension to April through September. Extending the season provides flexibility to address weather and other observed or anticipated mosquito season conditions. The amount requested in this appropriation for larval control is $23,500 and $34,100 to extend the season. Staff expects to bring additional enhancements to improve the efficacy of the City's West Nile Virus Management Program to Council at the May 6 regular Council meeting. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Applying a pesticide in some or all of Fort Collins represents an environmental impact. This budget appropriation is anticipated to reduce the likelihood of an adulticide application. The larval control product used is deemed to have a low environmental impact but it does reduce the abundance of mosquito larvae which has a cascading impact on species which feed upon larvae and adult mosquitos. BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Staff has presented the 2014 season recommendations to the Parks and Recreation Board, Air Quality Advisory Board and to the Natural Resources Advisory Board for comment. PUBLIC OUTREACH The recommended budget enhancements are the consensus recommendations of the West Nile Virus Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). The TAC is a group of citizens that have volunteered their time and expertise to review the City's program. TAC members include representatives of the Air Quality Advisory Board, Natural Resources Advisory Board, CSU scientists, a representative from urban agriculture, a representative of the pesticide sensitive registry, and the Larimer County Public Health Director. The TAC held seven (7) public meetings from December to April, discussing the West Nile Virus Program Response Guidelines and the issue of adulticide applications. ATTACHMENTS 1. Larval Program Enhancements to City of Fort Collins Mosquito Control (PDF) 2. 2014WNV Communication description (PDF) 3. Powerpoint presentation (PDF) Page 1 of 6 Program Response Guidelines to Mosquito-Borne Arboviral Activity March 2013 Off Season Activities Status: • No human cases occurring • Mosquito activity none to very low • Mosquito infection rates 0 • Vector index 0 Operational Response: 1. Routine post-season analysis of previous season’s data; assess response and efficacy. 2. Analyze and map data from prior years to develop surveillance strategy and select mosquito-trapping sites. 3. No mosquito testing. Communication Activities: 1. Updating of public outreach plan with any new information (e.g. at-risk populations). 2. Update FAQ’s and other information that may be needed if spraying occurs. ATTACHMENT 3 Page 2 of 6 Level I Early Season - June Status: • No human cases reported • Evidence of average or lower than average Culex species mosquito populations (as compared to available historical population data for the area) • Mosquito infection rates < 2 per thousand (0.2%) • Vector index < 0.5 Probability of Human Outbreak: Low Operational Response: 1. Initiate surveillance program. 2. Initiate larval control activities June 1st. 3. Brief City Manager on surveillance activities, mosquito-borne virus epidemiology and trigger points for recommendation of emergency control measures. Communication Activities: 1. Establish communication channels between appropriate City and County staff. 2. Ensure online information is up to date and prepare for ongoing, timely updates. 3. Initiate public education program on mosquito source reduction and risk reduction practices Communication Topics: o West Nile Virus basics o Wear repellent o Eliminate breeding sites Page 3 of 6 Level II Peak Season – July thru August – Low West Nile Virus Activity Status: • Sporadic human cases are being reported • No infected human blood donors have been reported • Culex mosquito populations increasing, but below historical average for that time period • Mosquito infection rate < 2 per thousand (0.2%) • Vector index < 0.5 Probability of Human Outbreak: Low – Moderate Operational Response: 1. Analyze and map surveillance data to identify areas of increased risk. 2. Continue mosquito pool submissions from surveillance program for West Nile virus testing with Colorado State University. 3. Brief City Manager on surveillance findings and need for quick action if activity rapidly increases. 4. Increase larval monitoring and control where necessary. 5. Begin planning for adulticide control in the event that virus activity and Culex populations rapidly rise. Communication Activities: 1. Notify local agencies, media and the public of positive findings. 2. Increase public education activities 3. Continue to regularly update online information, including maps illustrating risk areas. 4. Optional: targeted outreach to high-risk areas including: a. Door hangers b. Online outreach via NextDoor c. Posters and signage d. Coordination with Poudre School District and Colorado State University Communication Topics Overall: o West Nile Virus Basics o Wear repellent o Eliminate breeding sites o WNV policy and spraying decision parameters o How to get notified of mosquito spraying Communication Topics To Targeted Areas: o West Nile Virus risks and symptoms o Wear repellent o WNV policy and spraying decision parameters o How to get notified of mosquito spraying Page 4 of 6 Level III Peak Season – July thru August – Increasing West Nile Virus Activity Status: • More than one human case being reported per week in Fort Collins – OR – • More than one positive human blood donor reported for the season. -AND- • Culex mosquito populations increasing and at or above historical average by 1 standard deviation for that time period– OR – • Mosquito infection rates of > 3.0 per thousand (0.3%) and increasing – OR – • Vector index > 0.75 and increasing Probability of Human Outbreak: High Operational Response: 1. Enhanced communications between City and County regarding positive findings and anticipated response activities. City Manager apprised of threat levels and activities on an ongoing basis. 2. Identify geographic areas, by mapping surveillance data, where virus transmission appears most active. 3. Continue larviciding activities. 4. In the event the Health Department recommends adulticide spraying and the City Manager decides to proceed, commence adulticide operations. Communication Activities: 1. Coordinate press releases and a wide range of other activities to keep the public informed of affected areas, focusing on exposure risk reduction practices and public education of the disease threat. 2. Intensify existing public education activities and initiate public education/information on the adulticide program 3. Notify residents of affected and adjacent areas and people on the subscription notification list. 4. Notify appropriate agricultural interests (i.e. bee keepers, organic growers, etc.) and individuals on the Pesticide Sensitivity Registry of intended adulticiding activities, times, affected areas, etc. Also notify residents in areas that will not be part of the adulticide applications. Communication Topics o West Nile Virus risks and symptoms o Wear repellent o WNV policy and spraying decision parameters o How to get notified of mosquito spraying Page 5 of 6 Level IV Peak Season – July thru August – Emergency Level Status: • Multiple neuroinvasive human cases being reported in Fort Collins - AND – • Culex mosquito populations increasing and at or above historical average by 1 standard deviation for that time period - AND – • Sustained mosquito infection rates of > 5.0 per thousand (0.5%) – OR – • Vector index > 0.75. Probability of Human Outbreak: In progress Operational Response: 1. Expand mosquito surveillance activities (i.e. population densities, vector index and infection rates) to direct mosquito control efforts where risk to exposure is greatest and to monitor pre- and post-adulticide treatment conditions. 2. In the event the Health Department recommends additional adulticide spraying and the City Manager decides to proceed, continue spraying. 3. Secure any needed emergency funding and document costs associated with outbreak control. Communication Activities: 1. Focus as many resources as possible on public education and information; intensify all activities and involve public officials as spokespersons. Consider emergency measures to restrict outdoor activities. 2. Continue public education and information on the adulticide program including pesticides to be used, toxicity, application times, area of application, exposure reduction suggestions, justification, FAQ’s, etc. Notify residents of affected and adjacent areas and people on the subscription notification list. 3. Notify appropriate agricultural interests (i.e. bee keepers, organic growers, etc.) and individuals on the Pesticide Sensitivity Registry of any continued adulticiding activities, times, affected areas, etc. Also notify residents in areas that will not be part of the adulticide applications Communication Topics: o West Nile Virus risks and symptoms o Wear repellent o WNV policy and spraying decision parameters o How to get notified of mosquito spraying Page 6 of 6 Spraying Communication Activities 1. Coordinate communication with Colorado State University and Poudre School District for assistance in communicating spraying activities. 2. Focus all available resources on spraying notification. Communication Topics: o Spraying details: where and when o High quality map (interactive?) o Chemical used o Precautions to take: people, pets, gardens o Opt-out ability o Future spray notifications o WNV policy and spraying decision parameters o Special event contact (i.e., if you are planning a special event outside, please contact PERSON to coordinate spraying activities) PENDING IDEAS UNDER FURTHER INVESTIGATION • GPS tracking and real-time mapping of spray trucks • Mobile app to notify of spraying activities • Interactive online map of searchable addresses and spray zones • Opt-in phone notification system • Advisory Panel Orientation and Communication WNV Advisory Committee 2008 Rational: In 2003 the City began employing a contractor to supply services aimed at mitigating the risk of WNV. In three of the years since then the County Health Department has made a recommendation to utilize adulticides to reduce the WNV risk. The decision on whether or not to adulticide is the responsibility of the City Manager. Any recommendation by the County to adulticide is preceded by a detailed analysis of a number of factors; the recommendation is usually communicated to the City via email. The current process has caught many people off guard and causes concern and a variety of questions. A three-person WNV Advisory Committee, appointed by the City Manager from existing Boards and Commissions members and a member of the medical community would be tasked with staying abreast of unfolding information about mosquito activity, West Nile virus infections, and the many issues that come into play as the season progresses. This effort is coupled with expanded public outreach activities on the part of City and County staff. In the event that a recommendation of adulticiding is potentially forthcoming from the County, a series of updates will be scheduled to ensure all relevant information is promptly distributed. In the event that adulticiding is recommended by the County, the City Manager and the Advisory Committee will be prepared. The intent of the Advisory Committee is not to debate the merits of adulticiding or its’ potential human health effects during an outbreak, but rather to stay aware of the situation, air any questions or concerns, and act as an information conduit between the City Manager and members’ respective Boards. Advisors makeup and role: 1. One representative each from - Air Quality Advisory Board - Natural Resources Advisory Board - Local medical community. 2. Act as local citizen advisors to City Manager during the WNV season 3. Board Liaisons are people with technical expertise who can give timely advice when needed, including emergency situations where adulticiding may be recommended by the Health Department 4. Stay well-informed, abreast of most recent data 5. Act as liaison with respective Board 6. Not decision makers, nor do they have veto power; decisions lie with City Manager Process: 1. Liaisons will be included in informational emails from the Health Department and City staff group. Also expected to access relevant online data sites, e.g. Colorado Mosquito Control dashboard. 2. One meeting held early in season with City Manager; discuss and agree on communication protocols. 3. Advisors stay in touch with City Manager as season progresses, share perspectives 4. Should adulticiding be recommended by Health Department, advisors will immediately (within 24 hours) inform the City Manager of any concerns and/or suggestions. ATTACHMENT 4 Lindenwood Greenstone Springs Willow PEasrtaagteosn 0 1 2 3 Miles º Path: K:\ArcMapProjects\Parks\Mosquito\Date: Maps\MosquitoControlHOASelfSpray.April 28, 2014 mxd CITY GEOGRAPHIC These and were map OF not products FORT designed and INFORMATION COLLINS or all intended underlying for general data SYSTEM are use developed by members MAP for use of PRODUCTS the by the public. City The of Fort City Collins makes for no its representation internal purposes or only, warranty dimensions, as to contours, its accuracy, property timeliness, boundaries, or completeness, or placement and of location in particular, of any its map accuracy features in thereon. labeling or THE displaying CITY OF FORT COLLINS PARTICULAR MAKES PURPOSE, NO WARRANTY EXPRESSED OF MERCHANTABILITY OR IMPLIED, WITH OR RESPECT WARRANTY TO THESE FOR FITNESS MAP PRODUCTS OF USE FOR OR THE UNDERLYING FAULTS, and assumes DATA. Any all responsibility users of these of map the use products, thereof, map and applications, further covenants or data, and accepts agrees them to hold AS the IS, City WITH harmless ALL from made and this against information all damage, available. loss, Independent or liability arising verification from any of all use data of contained this map product, herein should in consideration be obtained of by the any City's users having of these liability, products, whether or direct, underlying indirect, data. or consequential, The City disclaims, which and arises shall or not may be arise held from liable these for any map and products all damage, or the loss, use thereof or by any person or entity. GIS Self-in Fort Spray Collins HOAs ATTACHMENT 5 ATTACHMENT 6 DRAFT West Nile Virus Program Manual March 2014 City Manager’s Office 300 Laporte Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80521 970-221-6505 fcgov.com/westnile For additional copies, please download from our website, or contact us using the information above. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL i Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..............................1 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...........................2 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT ............3 BACKGROUND ..........................................4 HISTORY OF CITY OF FORT COLLINS WNV PROGRAM .......................................5 2003 ................................................................ 5 2004 ................................................................ 5 2005 & 2006 .................................................. 5 2007 ................................................................ 5 2008 ................................................................ 5 2009, 2010, 2011 ............................................ 6 2012 ................................................................ 7 2013 ................................................................ 7 Partners: Colorado Mosquito Control (CMC), CDC, Larimer County, CSU .......................... 7 PERSONAL PROTECTION ...........................9 EDUCATIONAL & COMMUNITY OUTREACH ............................................. 10 City Staff Education ..................................... 10 Public Education – Video & Electronic ...................................... 10 Other Public Education/ Media Relations ........................................... 10 PROGRAM GUIDELINES .......................... 12 Off Season ................................................... 12 Level 1 (Early Season) ................................. 12 Level 2 (Peak Season with Low Virus Activity) ..................................... 12 Level 3 (Peak Season with Increasing Virus Activity) ........................... 13 Level 4 (Peak Season - Emergency Level) ........................................ 13 WNV Advisory Panel .................................. 14 LARVAL MANAGEMENT ......................... 15 ADULT MOSQUITO MANAGEMENT ........ 17 Surveillance ................................................. 17 Testing ......................................................... 17 Adult Mosquito Control ............................... 17 Individual Precautions ................................. 18 Pesticide Sensitive Registry ......................... 19 CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT ............... 20 GLOSSARY ............................................. 22 ATTACHMENTS AND APPENDICES .......... 23 ii DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Table of Figures FIGURE 1 – AVERAGE ANNUAL INCIDENCE OF WEST NILE VIRUS NEUROINVASIVE DISEASE, 1999-2012. ................................................................... 1 FIGURE 2 – COLORADO WEST NILE VIRUS HUMAN CASES OCTOBER 18, 2013. ........ 1 FIGURE 3 – PRIMARY WEST NILE VIRUS VECTORS BY REGION ................................. 4 FIGURE 4 - FIGHT THE BITE CAMPAIGN ................................................................... 8 FIGURE 5 - THE FOUR D’S ....................................................................................... 9 FIGURE 6 - DON’T GO NAKED ............................................................................... 10 FIGURE 7 - FCGOV.COM/WESTNILE ...................................................................... 11 FIGURE 8 - SPRAY MAP ........................................................................................ 18 FIGURE 9 - PESTICIDE SENSITIVE REGISTRY ........................................................... 19 FIGURE 10 - ANNUAL STEPS FOR PLAN, DO, CHECK & ACT .................................... 20 FIGURE 11 – SPRAY DECISION CHART ................................................................... 21 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 1 Executive Summary West Nile virus (WNV) is a serious health threat to the residents of Fort Collins. The virus is spread to humans when they are bitten by a mosquito that is infected with the virus. Since the virus is now endemic to the area it requires diligence in staying abreast of the intensity of the virus to prevent long-term effects on the residents. The City of Fort Collins employs an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach in responding to the threat of WNV in the community. IPM is the recommended strategy for mitigating the risk of human exposure to WNV by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/ipm.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). (cdc.gov/westnile/resources/pdfs/wnvguidelines.pdf) IPM is a common-sense approach that is based on setting thresholds for action based on levels of risk, and on using a variety of evidence-based interventions to maintain risks at low levels. A key strategy used throughout the history of the program is leveraging local partnerships with individuals and organizations. Initially working with the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment was a key first step in developing a comprehensive approach to a response of WNV in the community. The proximity of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Fort Collins branch, whose specialty is insect-transmitted diseases, and Colorado State University (CSU) provides access to individuals who volunteer as private citizens, but are also national and international experts in the field of managing mosquito-transmitted diseases. In 2007, at the City Manager’s direction a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) formed to assist with policy development and review of the WNV Management Program. This brought together many of these content experts and concerned citizens to vet the process. The TAC expanded in 2013 with the addition of two individuals who represent the urban farming community and No Spray Fort Collins Facebook page. FIGURE 1 – AVERAGE ANNUAL INCIDENCE OF WEST NILE VIRUS NEUROINVASIVE DISEASE, 1999-2012. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention FIGURE 2 – COLORADO WEST NILE VIRUS HUMAN CASES OCTOBER 18, 2013. Source: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment In 2013, Larimer County recorded 97 cases. 2 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Goals and Objectives The goal of the WNV Management Program is to reduce the risk of human WNV infection while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts. This goal recognizes there are trade-offs between program efforts to prevent human infection and adverse human health and environmental impacts, as well as the need to balance other human health risks and societal programs. Several mosquito species in the area bite humans but cannot transmit WNV. The city’s mosquito management program is limited only to trying to control those mosquito species (Culex) that transmit WNV disease. The City does not provide management for nuisance mosquitoes. The objective is to provide control of the Culex species of mosquitoes in the most cost effective and efficient manner in order to reduce the threat of WNV transmission in the community. Preventing human cases of West Nile virus disease is the shared responsibility of government agencies and the individuals those agencies serve. The City of Fort Collins is responsible for: 1. Developing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive WNV Management Plan based on established principles of Integrated Pest Management. 2. Coordinating intra-agency (within City departments) and interagency resources and efforts to maximize the efficacy of the City’s Plan. 3. Providing an annual report on the mosquito control strategies implemented by both the City and its mosquito control contractor during the previous mosquito season. 4. Operating with transparency to the public and providing opportunities for public comment regarding the City’s WNV Management Plan. Fort Collins residents are responsible for: 1. Taking personal protection measures (The 4 Ds, described on pg. 8) to avoid contracting WNV Disease. 2. Reporting areas of standing water that may serve as mosquito breeding sites. 3. Participating in the public process regarding the City’s WNV Management Plan. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 3 Integrated Pest Management The major principals of IPM are as follows: 1. Set Action Thresholds: Determine a point at which pest populations or environmental conditions will trigger control efforts. 2. Monitor and Identify Pests: Identify which pest species are present in a given environment and monitor pest populations to determine when an action threshold has been reached. 3. Prevention: Manage site conditions to minimize the likelihood of a given pest becoming a threat. 4. Control: Initiate control efforts if action thresholds are reached. An integrated pest management approach dictates that the safest and most environmentally-friendly management strategies are used first and stronger, more invasive strategies are used only if initial efforts are unable to control the pest below levels deemed acceptable. This strategy incorporates many tools for reducing the risk of WNV in the community. The tools available at this time are: personal protection education communication strategies source reduction mapping site inspections larviciding monitoring trapping testing adult mosquito spraying Culex mosquito, which carries and spreads the West Nile virus disease. 4 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Background WNV is a virus transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The virus can cause symptoms ranging from flu-like conditions to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), resulting in long-term effects up to and including death. The virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1937, but it did not appear in the United States until 1999. In 2002, the virus was first detected in Colorado, with 380 equine cases and 13 human cases reported along the Front Range. In 2003 West Nile virus hit the Fort Collins area and northeastern Colorado particularly hard. That year, Larimer County had 546 reported cases and 10 deaths, while Colorado led the nation with 2,947 cases and 66 WNV-related deaths (CDPHE 2010). Even though there are 65 species of mosquitoes that can carry WNV in the United States, there are three varieties that drive the transmission of the virus to humans. In Fort Collins two of the three species occur and can be common. These are the Culex tarsalis and Culex pipiens. Prior to 2003, the City of Fort Collins did not provide mosquito control for residents. The WNV program philosophy is to reduce the risk of human disease from WNV, and there is no intention to provide control of nuisance mosquitoes not associated with WNV transmission. Mosquitoes are an important part of the food chain for many insects and animals and by limiting control efforts to the species of concern the impact on the environment will be minimized. This strategy also helps reduce the cost and potential negative impacts of pesticides on the environment and the community. WNV will appear annually in Fort Collins during the mosquito season. FIGURE 3 – PRIMARY WEST NILE VIRUS VECTORS BY REGION Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 5 History of City of Fort Collins WNV Program 2003 Although West Nile virus was detected in this area in horses and birds in 2002, the first human cases of West Nile virus in Fort Collins were reported in 2003. Anticipating a possible human outbreak, the City contracted with Colorado Mosquito Control in 2003 to do an extensive adult mosquito trapping and surveillance system to monitor Culex mosquitoes throughout the city. Unfortunately, testing of the trapped mosquitoes could not be done in real time, but the CDC offered to test all Fort Collins and Loveland mosquitoes trapped that summer, after the season was over, as part of their WNV research. As the number of reported human cases began to rise rapidly, the City responded under Council direction to mitigate its spread through control of the mosquitoes that carried it. Council passed an emergency declaration, Resolution 2003-097. The emergency program in 2003 was composed of stormwater catch basin larviciding citywide and adult mosquito spraying of about a quarter of the city to reduce WNV-infected mosquitoes. The mission of the Fort Collins West Nile Virus program at its inception was, and still is, to reduce the human impact of West Nile Virus while balancing costs and social and environmental impacts. Since 2003, the City has invested in outreach efforts to educate residents on the importance of personal protection. In early 2004 the CDC released their analysis of the city’s mosquito infection rates compared to the human case onsets, as well as a limited analysis of the sprayed vs. unsprayed areas of the city to examine the effectiveness of the adult mosquito control efforts. 2004 In 2004, WNV program guidelines were put into place via resolution 2004-082. This resolution focused on the relationship among the City, Board of Health and the WNV program response plan. During this year there was also an ad hoc group of concerned residents and representatives from the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board that convened to provide feedback on the WNV response. 2005 & 2006 Both years were relatively quiet for WNV activity. There were mosquitoes that tested positive in both years, but the monitoring system supported by the City showed that the virus did not amplify as in the previous two years. 2007 WNV was more active in 2007, causing another human outbreak and leading to citywide spraying for adult mosquitoes. As in previous years, some residents were concerned about the impact of spraying on human and environmental health. At the conclusion of 6 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Agriculture (USDA) with expertise in mosquito- transmitted diseases and local ecosystems, though they did not serve as official representatives of the federal government. These individuals brought additional expertise to the group, but were acting as private citizens. City Council charged the TAC with developing policy recommendations for a WNV mitigation policy. The committee’s recommendations were the foundation for comprehensive program guidelines for an Integrated Pest Management approach to preventing human cases of West Nile virus disease. On July 1, 2008, the TAC’s policy recommendations were enacted by City Council. Resolution 2008-062 became the WNV management policy, which still guides the program today. The resolution included program response guidelines for integrated pest management, including thresholds and actions. One main program element is for the TAC to meet regularly during the winter and spring months to review the program response guidelines and make recommendations to Council for continuous program improvement. Regardless of the West Nile Virus prevalence in any particular season, the TAC convenes every year to review the data. The committee examines what parts of the season were most active, forecasts the next season, and explores new research and techniques. In the spring, the TAC studies weather patterns, arranges schedules and plans for the season. During the off-season, the committee reviews other parts of the program, such as public outreach and larviciding. Another group created by the WNV management policy is the WNV Advisory Panel. The panel consists of three members representing the medical community, the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board. They commit to stay current with all information shared during the season and to act as a conduit for this information to be disseminated to their groups. If the County Department of Health Director makes a recommendation to spray adulticides, the panel members provide feedback to the City Manager regarding their agreement or disagreement with the recommendation, including its justification. In 2008, the CDC provided its last year of free testing of adult mosquitos for WNV, which forced the program to plan for an alternative vendor to provide this service. 2009, 2010, 2011 These three years had relatively low virus activity. There was no adulticiding for three consecutive years, although a significant number of severe WNV human cases occurred in late-season 2009. The TAC did conduct end-of-season reviews each year. In 2009, due to the CDC elimination of testing services, CSU was selected to test for WNV infection in trapped mosquitoes. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 7 eliminated along with backyard and stormwater inspections to address the reduction. 2012 2012 was the first year in which adulticide was used by the City since the adoption of the 2008 WNV management policy. Late in the summer of 2012 thresholds were reached and a recommendation to adulticide came from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. The application was completed in two nights to approximately half of the city. Fulfilling the goal of continuous improvement, the TAC’s end-of-season review in 2012 resulted in several recommendations: enhance communication with CSU and PSD, conduct more targeted outreach, increase the level of the risk index (one of the triggers for adulticiding), and reinstate backyard and stormwater drain inspections. The risk index was raised from 0.5 to 0.75 to increase the threshold that must be met to trigger the need for adulticiding. (Due to confusion around the risk index, this point needed to be clarified so that the program response guidelines were consistent.) The definition of the risk index is included in the appendix. The City also expanded the mosquito trapping network in 2012. Five gravid traps were added, making for a total of 10 in the city. That addition, along with Fort Collins’ 43 light traps, makes the City’s trapping network among the most comprehensive in the country. (Please see the Mosquito Trap Description in the appendix.) 2013 In 2013, the monitoring system indicated that the prevalence of WNV was high enough to trigger citywide adulticiding. The City sprayed on two nights to reduce the abundance of infected mosquitoes in order to reduce the risk of transmission to people and to break the transmission cycle. After spraying was completed the risk index decreased from 0.85 to 0.29. PARTNERS: COLORADO MOSQUITO CONTROL (CMC), CDC, LARIMER COUNTY, CSU Partnerships are a large component of Fort Collins’ WNV management program. However, with the exception of the City and the County, the views represented by members of the TAC Committee are their own and do not represent their respective organizations. The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is a very close partner in the administration of the City’s WNV management program. A representative from the department sits on the TAC, provides advice on response protocol and options, and is the conduit to state health department. When the City must do control measures and outreach, it coordinates with the County and shares information to assist with decision making. The CDC’s Division of Vector-Borne Diseases happens to be located in Fort Collins and has provided 8 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL the TAC and shared research findings to aid in decision making. The City has a contract with Colorado Mosquito Control (CMC) to provide larval site mapping and inspections, larviciding, and adult mosquito trapping and surveillance. When needed, CMC also provides adult mosquito spraying. In 2014, CMC was acquired by Advanced Pest Control of Colorado and a copy of the current contract is in the appendix. FIGURE 4 - FIGHT THE BITE CAMPAIGN Source: Tri-County Health Department Comment [AR1]: Do you have a better image of this? It’s old, so perhaps not. http://www.fightthebitecolorado.com/ DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 9 Personal Protection Personal protection to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes is one of the most effective ways to prevent exposure to WNV. Individuals who believe they have WNV disease symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible – if you don’t get bit you don’t get WNV! Using the 4 Ds to prevent WNV is a strategy the City of Fort Collins employs. Drain – Source reduction (removal of larval habitat) is an effective way to reduce the areas where mosquitoes can breed. Any shallow water left unattended for more than a few days becomes a potential development site for larval mosquitoes. FIGURE 5 - THE FOUR D’S Source: City of Fort Collins Dusk & Dawn – Limit time outdoors during the dusk and dawn periods when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite. DEET – Any repellent approved by the EPA is effective if used according to the label. There are several choices of repellents available from local retail stores. Visit their webpage at cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/#searchform to see a list of EPA approved repellents visit Dress – Long sleeves and pants may deter mosquitoes from biting. If the material is light and tight the mosquitoes can bite right through. Appropriate clothing, together with use of a repellent, helps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. 10 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Educational & Community Outreach Communication and education play an important role in the prevention of WNV. The City of Fort Collins is cooperating with Larimer County and other regional entities to conduct a multi-faceted public education campaign. The purpose of these outreach efforts is to encourage the following actions by the public and by City staff:  Take personal protection measures to reduce the risk of exposure to WNV, including limiting time spent outdoors from dusk to dawn, wearing appropriate clothing, and using effective insect repellent.  Reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water. A variety of communication tools and outreach methods will be employed to deliver this message: CITY STAFF EDUCATION  Training Sessions – live and videotaped  Employee newsletter and online articles  Updates to front-line staff and WNV liaison team FIGURE 6 - DON’T GO NAKED Source: City of Fort Collins PUBLIC EDUCATION – VIDEO & ELECTRONIC  Cable 14 programs and bulletin board  City website: fcgov.com/WestNile  Online notifications  Facebook, Twitter & Nextdoor OTHER PUBLIC EDUCATION/MEDIA RELATIONS  Information provided at City-sponsored special events  Staff responses to public concerns  News releases  Public service announcements (PSAs) Ongoing education will be the City’s number one priority in our effort to manage West Nile virus. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 11 FIGURE 7 - FCGOV.COM/WESTNILE Source: City of Fort Collins 12 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Program Guidelines As part of the TAC recommendations the Program Response Guidelines were created. This is the operational document that drives the response to the threat of WNV in the community. There are four response levels outlined in the guidelines, with triggers and associated responses to those triggers. Based on the IPM practice, the most environmentally friendly measures are used early and often. When necessary, as the risk increases, emergency response tools are used to control the amplification of the virus. Please see the attached Program Response Guidelines. One of the main surveillance indicators used by the City to monitor levels of WNV risk is the Vector Index. This index uses information gathered through the mosquito monitoring and testing system to estimate the average number of infected mosquitoes collected per trap night in the area. By using data from several years of the City’s surveillance program and WNV human case reports, the Vector Index provides an estimate of the risk of a WNV outbreak and allows the City to take action before an outbreak occurs. The sections of the Program Guidelines are summarized: OFF SEASON This time of the year is when the TAC reviews the previous season’s data and develops strategies for the next year’s program. The continuous improvement model would define this as the Check and Act segments. LEVEL 1 (EARLY SEASON) This time of the season has low WNV activity. While it will be present, it has not been amplified by the mosquito-bird-mosquito transmission cycle to a level of more serious risk. The main activities during this period are: public outreach, larval site inspections, larval site treatments, source reduction, inter-agency communication, and adult mosquito trapping and WNV testing. This period begins in June and could continue through the entire season depending on the amplification of the virus in the natural mosquito-bird-mosquito cycle. LEVEL 2 (PEAK SEASON WITH LOW VIRUS ACTIVITY) During this period, when virus activity is generally low, preparation and larval management efforts are increased. Focusing again on enhanced outreach and control efforts, the program aims to prevent the amplification of the virus by controlling mosquitoes in the larval habitats in an effort to keep adult mosquito abundance low. Human cases may occur during periods of low virus activity, but cases are rare and due to the fact that risk of infection cannot be completely eliminated. During this period, mosquito abundance and infection rates may be increasing during this period, but the Vector Index remains at a lower level, below the threshold for more active intervention. Level 2 can begin as early DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 13 LEVEL 3 (PEAK SEASON WITH INCREASING VIRUS ACTIVITY) There are several triggers that are closely monitored and evaluated in this level. When the number of infected mosquitoes has risen to this level, response actions are intensified. Public outreach is critical to inform people of the elevated risk of infection and disease, and to allow individuals to take preventative measures against exposure to mosquitoes carrying the virus. All regular control efforts are continued to attempt to reduce the production of new mosquitoes and limit the amplification of the virus. Typically during this time, the summer temperatures reach their peak and larvae develop more rapidly, which makes controlling the larvae a challenge. Inter-agency communications intensify and it is usually during this period that evaluation of the surveillance information will lead the Health Department to issue a recommendation for adulticiding operations. Per the City’s policy, this triggers a 24-hour feedback period for the WNV Advisory Panel, after which the City Manager will issue the decision for an application. If adulticiding is initiated, the notification system is put into motion and route planning begins while taking into account a comprehensive list of activities that might conflict with the application. Typically this level is not seen until early July and can persist through August, and in some years into early September. LEVEL 4 (PEAK SEASON - EMERGENCY LEVEL) Similar to Level 3, response actions intensify in frequency and magnitude. Triggers are monitored, public outreach is increased, and operations move at the highest speed possible. If the Health Department issues an adulticiding recommendation, the same review process is initiated as in Level 3. In the event of an application of adulticides the same procedures are followed as in Level 3. This level is typically not reached until the end of July and may persist into September. CDC light trap used to capture adult mosquitoes. 14 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL WNV ADVISORY PANEL In 2008, the Advisory Panel was established with the adoption of the WNV Management Policy (2008-062). This panel is comprised of three individuals from three separate groups (Larimer County medical community, Natural Resources Advisory Board, Air Quality Advisory Board). The group was formed to monitor the WNV activity throughout the season, provide information back to their constituents and, when appropriate, provide feedback on all adulticiding recommendations received from the County Health Department. A comprehensive description is found in the attached appendices. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 15 Larval Management Larval management is one of the cornerstones of the mitigation program. Site inspections and treatments are very effective mosquito control methods. Currently the larval treatment season runs from June 1 –Aug. 31 each year. Ten years of data show that this is the most active portion of the year for mosquitoes in Fort Collins. Technicians are trained to identify larvae of local WNV mosquito vectors and apply the appropriate products to control them. The first consideration for any site is the option of source reduction to remove the larval habitat. To date, there are 950 known active larval mosquito habitats and 457 mandatory sites (weekly or twice per week inspections based on seasonal potential) included in the inspection and larviciding programs for the City of Fort Collins. There were 135 backyard sites included in the 2013 backyard public inspection program. An additional 17 new larval sites were added to the active larval inspection program and 13 new backyard sites werefound in the service area for Fort Collins in 2013. Since the inception of the program, 151 sites have been eliminated or physically modified and no longer have the potential to produce mosquito larvae; 294 sites have been mapped and listed as not active due to their low potential to produce mosquito larvae. Source reduction is achieved by eliminating mosquito breeding sites by draining standing water where possible. There are many areas in town where source reduction has been achieved successfully. Working with the Stormwater Utility to maintain and improve stormwater detention areas so they flow and/or absorb as quickly as possible is an example of source reduction. In other wetland areas source reduction is not feasible as it would have a negative impact on desirable wetland habitat. Each site is evaluated on an individual basis so the treatment is appropriate for each area. Another option for larval management is the use of mosquito eating fish. The City’s contractor provides fathead minnows to residences with ornamental ponds at no cost to the individual. Each site must be evaluated to assure the minnows will survive and provide mosquito larval control. Technician examining a mosquito dipper for larvae. When the use of a larvicide is required to control the larva there are several factors that are taken into account so the appropriate product is used. The general philosophy is to use the product that will be as targeted and effective as possible while having the least impact to the environment and human health. The following is the list of products currently used in the program: Vectobac - Bacillus thuringiensis var. Israeli (Bti) this bacterial product is the preferred larvicide used in the program. The efficacy, targeted effects and the reduced environmental impacts make this product an 16 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL through several broods of mosquitoes. Unfortunately it is cost prohibitive at three times the cost of Bti. Altosid-Methoprene is a synthetic copy of a juvenile growth hormone in mosquitoes. This keeps the mosquito larva from maturing into an adult. One positive result from this product is that the larva is still available as a food source for other organisms present that feed on larva. Bonide is a light mineral oil that is only used when pupa is found in the larval site. Once the larva reaches the pupa stage it will no longer feed, which eliminates the use of Bti or Bs products. This product is non- selective in nature as it will eliminate all air-breathing insects in the water until it dissipates. Typically this product is used on newly discovered sites or is an indicator that the reproductive cycles of the mosquitoes are increasing. Please refer to appendix for the Material Safety Data Sheets and labels for each product. The contractor performs quality control inspections in the field from June through the first week of July. In 2013, there were a total of 46 sites inspected, with correct estimation of acreage, product selection and application rate, thoroughness of inspection and time spent inspecting occurring at 82.2 percent of the sites. In 2013, the larviciding program eliminated an estimated 7 billion mosquito larvae preventing emergence of biting adults. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 17 Adult Mosquito Management SURVEILLANCE Adult mosquito monitoring (also called surveillance) is the foundation of a mosquito management program. The surveillance program tracks the abundance and locations of Culex mosquitoes and infection levels when combined with a testing regime for WNV. It serves as an early warning system of increased risk of West Nile virus infections. A network of fixed traps has been placed throughout the city and is used to develop a base of information that allows temporal and spatial evaluation of changes in the mosquito population. Mosquito trapping provides an estimate of the number and species of mosquitoes present within a geographical area. The subsequent testing of Culex vector mosquitoes for WNV allows for monitoring WNV infection rates and calculation of the Vector Index. Knowing where WNV-infected mosquitoes occur helps to identify areas of high risk, assess the need for and timing of intervention strategies, and monitor the effectiveness of prevention and control measures. There are 43 light traps and 10 gravid traps (see appendix) currently in operation from June through August each year. Traps are located in a grid pattern throughout the city (Appendix-Map of Traps). These traps are set out one night per week during the season to collect adult mosquitoes. The light and gravid traps are designed to catch the greatest number and diversity of mosquitos possible. After collecting the traps, the mosquitoes are separated by species, and the two Culex species are sent in separate batches from each trap (called mosquito “pools”) for analysis by CSU. This is one of the most extensive municipal trapping networks in the country. The data produced is essential in the decision-making process. TESTING The second step of the adult mosquito surveillance program involves testing the submitted pools of mosquitoes for West Nile virus infection. In 2013, 1,082 pools comprised of 26,113 Culex mosquitoes were tested for WNV infection. When WNV is found in the submitted pools the Vector Index is then calculated (if all mosquito pools are negative for WNV, then the Vector Index is zero). The Vector Index estimates the average number of WNV- infected Culex vector mosquitoes collected per trap night for a given area. It is monitored on a weekly basis throughout the season. In the years when the WNV activity is high a recommendation to provide adult mosquito control may come from the Larimer County public health director, based in large part on the indicators of risk derived from mosquito trapping and testing. ADULT MOSQUITO CONTROL The final element of adult mosquito management is using pesticide spraying to control adult mosquitoes, (also called “adulticiding”). Spraying to reduce the 18 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL appendix) It must be noted that the labels and safety data sheets included in the appendix are designed for use by the applicators and do not reflect the level of exposure that a citizen would encounter when these products are applied. The intent of the WNV Mitigation Program is to prevent adulticide applications by first performing other activities to control mosquitoes and thus prevent the abundance of WNV-infected mosquitoes (Vector Index) from reaching the point where emergency adulticiding is the only remaining option to protect human health. The program has been successful without the use of adulticides in half the years since the WNV appeared in the area. Citywide adult mosquito spraying for WNV was done only in 2007 and 2013. Smaller sections of the city were sprayed in 2003, 2004, and 2012. Once a recommendation is received by the City, a 24- hour feedback period begins for the WNV Advisory Panel (Appendix-Advisory Panel Guidelines). Once the panel provides feedback, the decision rests with the City Manager whether to initiate control operations. The following flow chart depicts the process following a recommendation from the County. Every application of adulticide is done on a two-night cycle three to five nights apart. This is required due to the life cycle of the mosquito in combination with the extremely low levels of pesticide applied in the control application. The permethrin-based product used in adulticiding is applied at a rate of 0.0035 pounds/acre. This is half the rate or strength recommended by the manufacturer’s label. The label also allows for up to 22 separate applications per season, which is substantially higher than has ever been initiated by the current program. Typically, when adulticiding has been initiated in Fort Collins, there have been no more than two cycles (four nights) of application performed in one season. FIGURE 8 - SPRAY MAP Source: City of Fort Collins DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 19 INDIVIDUAL PRECAUTIONS For those concerned about pesticide exposure, residents can stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed for 30-60 minutes after spraying occurs as well as bring pets indoors. A comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) is available at fcgov.com/westnile/faq.php#4. PESTICIDE SENSITIVE REGISTRY The program makes accommodations for individuals on the Pesticide Sensitive Registry (PSR). The PSR is maintained by the Colorado Department of Agriculture and requires the endorsement of a Colorado licensed physician to verify the evidence of chemical sensitivity in an individual. The Department of Agriculture specifically exempts the use of the registry for mosquito control. The City of Fort Collins WNV Management Policy uses this registry to provide an enhanced level of protection for individuals that have proven their sensitivity to pesticides. In 2004, the WNV response program allowed an opt- out option during spraying, but it was extremely challenging to operate, could not guarantee that spray did not drift onto opt-out properties, and likely inhibited the effectiveness of the spraying program, so it was eliminated. FIGURE 9 - PESTICIDE SENSITIVE REGISTRY Source: Colorado Department of Agriculture 20 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Continuous Improvement Per the City’s WNV Management Policy the TAC meets on a regular basis to ensure efficacy of the program. Following the precepts of continuous improvement the steps to Plan, Do, Check and Act are initiated to assist with efficacy assurance. In years where adulticides have not been used, the review is fairly simple with a post- and pre-season meeting scheduled. In years when adulticides have been utilized the review is more robust and thorough. Currently, the Best Management Practice protocols suggested by the states of California, Washington and Florida, and the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation (xerces.org) are being reviewed. The intent is to incorporate and potentially adopt new ideas and/or procedures to enhance the current program. The greatest danger is complacency when the virus does not amplify during consecutive seasons. Since the virus is now endemic to the area it requires diligence in staying abreast of the intensity of the virus to prevent long-term effects on the residents. FIGURE 10 - ANNUAL STEPS FOR PLAN, DO, CHECK & ACT Source: City of Fort Collins DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 21 FIGURE 11 – SPRAY DECISION CHART Source: City of Fort Collins 22 DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL Glossary Vector - An insect, animal, etc., that carries germs that cause disease Adulticide - An insecticide used to kill adult insects. The process of applying these products in mosquito control is referred to as fogging. Larvicide - An insecticide that specifically targets the larval life stage of an insect for control. Larvacides may be contact poisons, stomach poisons, growth regulators, or (increasingly) biological agents. Light Trap - Portable sampling device for the collection of mosquitoes. Main components include motor, fan battery, collection bag and cooler for bait. Particularly effective in assessing the presence of Culex tarsalis. Gravid Trap - Portable sampling device for the collection of mosquitoes. Main components include collection bag, pan for attractant motor and fan. Particularly effective in assessing the presence of Culex pipiens. DRAFT WEST NILE PROGRAM MANUAL 23 Attachments and Appendices  Program Response Guidelines  Yearly report(s) from CMC-link to website  Communication tools  Relative Risk Study-Peterson  Maps of Traps  Link to TAC documents (agenda, minutes)  Matrix of program response guidelines integrated with communication plan  NPIC information on chemicals.  Pesticide labels and MSDS’s  Contracts  WNV Advisory Panel Guidelines  Studies  CDC WNV page (http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html) 1 West Nile Virus Management Plan 2014 Appropriation and Options Agenda Item # May 6, 2014 ATTACHMENT 7 2 Ordinance No. 063, 2014 • Appropriate prior year reserves to fund enhancements • Funds enhance communication and larval control • Total 2014 appropriation: $75,100 • Enhancements will continue into 2015-16 WNV budget 3 Enhanced 2014 Program Budget • Colorado Mosquito Control Contract $206,548 – New inspection and applications $23,500 – Expand existing program $34,100 $264,148 • Colorado State University Contract $22,354 • Communication Budget $11,795 – Communication enhancement $17,500 $29,295 • Enhanced program budget: $315,797 4 West Nile Virus Program Purpose “Reduce the risk of human WNV infection while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts.” -- West Nile Virus Management Policy Adopted July 1, 2008 5 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) • Provide a wide range of public outreach and education • Extensive ongoing mosquito populations data collection and monitoring, including WNV testing • Aggressive larval control program focusing on Culex mosquitoes • Periodic review to ensure program efficacy 6 Management Plan Options • Advisory Panel • Program Response Guidelines • Zones • Opt-out Program 7 Advisory Panel • Enhancements: – Add transparency to decision-making – Create participant manual for Panel – Panelists participate in TAC meetings • Options: – Term limit for all panelists – Allow “current and former” Boardmembers 8 Program Response Guidelines • Options: – Maintain as-is – Remove human cases as threshold – Raise the vector index (currently at 0.75) – Lower the vector index 9 Program Response Guidelines: Human Cases • Lagging indicator – Identified 2-3 weeks after transmission – Threshold requires 2+ in one week • Delays a health-related intervention • Mosquito trap data optimal data point 10 Graphic provided by Larimer Co. Health Department 11 Vector Index • Vector Index: – Provides an estimate of the number of WNV- infected mosquitoes collected from the trap – Measure of disease transmission risk • 2013 raise vector index from 0.50 to 0.75 12 Zones • Options: – Maintain as citywide – Adopt a three (3) zone approach – Adopt a four (4) zone approach – Adopt a seven (7) zone approach – Flexible zone approach 13 Zones • Using zones can make program more nimble • Utilizes trap network data • Limits size of treated area • Focuses efforts where needed • May reduce adulticide application costs 14 Zones • map 15 Opt-out Program • Options: – No opt-out – Opt-out for pesticide sensitivity registry – Opt-out for businesses with education • Only those with long-term financial impact – Voluntary opt-out 16 No Opt-out • Most effective way to address public health • Improves effectiveness of pesticide application – Excluded areas can harbor infected mosquitos 17 Pesticide Sensitivity Opt-out • Current practice • Allows exclusion for health reasons • Requires physician verification • Currently includes about 15 homes in Fort Collins • Operationally feasible practice • Contractor provides between 300-500’ buffer 18 Business opt-out • Exclusively for demonstrated long-term impact – Urban farms – Beekeepers – Research labs • Applicant will complete education on: – Source reduction – Personal/employee protection • Seeks to limit economic impact • Contractor provides between 300-500’ buffer 19 Voluntary Opt-out • Opt-out program open to any citizen • Contractor provides between 300-500’ buffer • Operationally challenging: – Unknown how many homes or where – Could leave out large areas of community • Ineffective to apply pesticide for outbreaks • Neighbor identification 20 Staff Recommendations • Advisory Panel – Allow “current and former” boardmember participation • Program Response Guidelines – Remove human cases as threshold and retain 0.75 vector index threshold • Zones – Adopt 4 zones for 2014 season • Opt-out Program – Retain pesticide sensitivity registry and allow limited business opt-out 21 SAMPLE MOTIONS - WEST NILE VIRUS 1. WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT POLICY NOTE: The following motions are only required if the Council wants to change the current Management Policy; if the desire is to maintain the Policy as adopted, no motion is required. a. Opt-out Program i. To amend the West Nile Virus Management Policy to include an opt-out option for pesticide-sensitive populations: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that will allow City residents registered on the State Pesticide-Sensitivity Registry to opt out of City-administered adulticide applications. ii. To amend the West Nile Virus Management Policy to include an opt-out option for businesses with specific hardships: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that will allow City businesses that can demonstrate they will experience financial loss from City-administered adulticide applications to opt out of City-administered adulticide applications. iii. To amend the West Nile Virus Management Policy to include a voluntary opt-out with education option for City residents: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that will allow City residents who agree to participate in backyard consultation with City staff about source reduction actions that could be taken and complete approved additional education to opt out of City-administered adulticide applications, with such opt-out election to be valid for one-year with regard to City adulticide applications. b. Treatment Zones: i. To amend the West Nile Virus Management Policy to create four treatment zones within the City to tailor program adulticide applications: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that establishes four treatment zones in the City, based on historical data or mosquito activity, in order to allow a more targeted application of the City’s program. ii. To amend the West Nile Virus Management Policy to create seven treatment zones within the City to tailor program adulticide applications: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that establishes seven treatment zones in the City, based on the 2013 Larimer County Health Department data, in order to allow the City to treat the smallest land areas necessary under the City’s program. 2. ADVISORY PANEL: a. To amend the West Nile Management Policy to define the make-up and term limits of the Advisory Panel members and provide for appointment of the members: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that establishes the specific composition and terms applicable to members of the West Nile Virus Advisory Panel, and to provide for the appointment of the members of that panel by (the City Council) or (the City Manager). b. City Manager appointment of current or former City advisory board members to serve on the Advisory Panel: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration a resolution (directing) or (encouraging) the City Manager to appoint at least two current or former City advisory board members to serve on the West Nile Virus Advisory Panel, in order for the Panel to benefit from knowledge gained by experienced advisory board members. c. City Manager appointment of current or former City Natural Resource Advisory Board and Air Quality Advisory Board members to serve on the Advisory Panel: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration a resolution (directing) or (encouraging) the City Manager to appoint at least two current or former City Natural Resource Advisory Board and Air Quality Advisory Board members to serve on the West Nile Virus Advisory Panel, in order for the Panel to benefit from specific expertise gained by members of these advisory boards. 3. PROGRAM RESPONSE GUIDELINES: a. To remove human cases as a mandatory threshold: I move that the City Manager modify the Program Response Guidelines to eliminate the incidence of human West Nile infections as a threshold requirement for the application of adulticides. b. To increase infection vector index threshold: I move that the City Manager modify the Program Response Guidelines to increase the vector index used to determine whether a West Nile Virus outbreak is occurring from the current index of 0.75 to 1.0. c. To decrease infection vector index threshold: I move that the City Manager modify the Program Response Guidelines to decrease the vector index used to determine whether a West Nile Virus outbreak is occurring from the current index of 0.75 to an index of 0.50. d. To direct the City Manager to present an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that includes Program Response Guidelines: I move that the City Manager present for Council consideration an amended West Nile Virus Management Policy that establishes specific program response guidelines, to define necessary operational protocols under the City’s program. - 1 - ORDINANCE NO. 063, 2014 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS APPROPRIATING PRIOR YEAR RESERVES IN THE GENERAL FUND TO FUND ENHANCEMENTS TO THE FORT COLLINS WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE 2014 SEASON WHEREAS, the Fort Collins West Nile Virus Management Program (the “Program”) emphasizes education and public information, source reduction on public and private property, and larval management ahead of a pesticide application; and WHEREAS, larval management is a proven mosquito management approach that is currently conducted within the City’s limits and a boundary extending about one mile to the east outside of the City; and WHEREAS, the current season for larval management is limited to June 1st to August 31st based on the current Program’s budget; and WHEREAS, additional funds are needed by the Program to further enhance the public outreach and education, to increase the City’s larval control boundary, and to allow for a more flexible larval control season; and WHEREAS, staff is requesting an appropriation in the amount of $75,100 from prior year reserves in the General Fund for the Program in 2014; and WHEREAS, the appropriation will fund items that the City’s West Nile Virus Technical Advisor Committee has recommended to improve the operation of the Program; and WHEREAS, the funds would enhance public education and outreach through developing additional tools to communicate and foster public understanding of the risks of the West Nile Virus and benefits of personal protection; and WHEREAS, the funds would also allow for the larval management area to be expanded by an additional one to two miles and the larval management season to be extended to the period from April through September, so as to better address weather and anticipated mosquito season conditions; and WHEREAS, Article V, Section 9, of the City Charter permits the City Council to appropriate by ordinance at any time during the fiscal year such funds for expenditure as may be available from reserves accumulated in prior years, notwithstanding that such reserves were not previously appropriated. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS that there is hereby appropriated for expenditure from reserves in the General Fund the sum of SEVENTY FIVE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($75,100) to fund enhancements to the City’s West Nile Virus Management Program in 2014. - 2 - Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 15th day of April, A.D. 2014, and to be presented for final passage on the 6th day of May, A.D. 2014. Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________ City Clerk Passed and adopted on final reading on the 6th day of May, A.D. 2014. Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________ City Clerk ADDITIONAL ORDINANCE FOR CONSIDERATION WITH AGENDA ITEM #16 ORDINANCE NO. 073, 2014 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS APPROPRIATING PRIOR YEAR RESERVES IN THE GENERAL FUND TO FUND THE FORT COLLINS WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE 2014 SEASON WHEREAS, the Fort Collins’ West Nile Virus Management Program (the “Program”) emphasizes education and public information, source reduction on public and private property, and larval management ahead of a pesticide application; and WHEREAS, larval management is a proven mosquito management approach that is currently conducted within the City’s limits and a boundary extending outside of the City limits; and WHEREAS, this Program focuses on public health and, therefore, shall be primarily funded from General and Enterprise funds; and WHEREAS, funding for the Program in the 2013-2014 biennial budget has been allocated from the General Fund (39.4%), Utilities Storm Water Fund (6.1%), and Natural Areas Fund (54.5%); and WHEREAS, the Natural Areas Department has committed to contribute approximately $131,492 to the Program in 2014; and WHEREAS, staff is requesting an appropriation in the amount of $131,492 from prior year reserves in the General Fund to be applied to the Program in lieu of the anticipated funding contribution from the Natural Areas Fund for 2014; and WHEREAS, Article V, Section 9, of the City Charter permits the City Council to appropriate by ordinance at any time during the fiscal year such funds for expenditure as may be available from reserves accumulated in prior years, notwithstanding that such reserves were not previously appropriated. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS that there is hereby appropriated for expenditure from reserves in the General Fund the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY ONE THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED NINETY TWO DOLLARS ($131,492) to fund the City’s West Nile Virus Management Program in 2014 as provided herein. Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 6th day of May, A.D. 2014, and to be presented for final passage on the 20th day of May, A.D. 2014. __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ City Clerk Passed and adopted on final reading on the 20th day of May, A.D. 2014. __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ City Clerk number of infected adult mosquitoes is a controversial topic in Fort Collins. The goal of the current program is to reduce the risk of transmission of WNV to people while limiting the negative environmental and health impacts. The use of adult mosquito control is a decision based on risk management. The Program Response Guidelines are in place to ensure that the level of WNV activity has elevated to a point that has been associated with unacceptable risk of human disease before the use of adulticides is approved. The use of adult mosquito control has been debated among the TAC since its inception. Several studies have been referenced to provide the rationale for using ultralow volume (ULV) pesticide spraying when the risk of human transmission has become too great. The topics covered include relative risk analysis, endocrine disruption, effectiveness of adulticiding, the label and safety data sheets of the available products, and general pesticide information. (located in the ideal choice. These bacteria damage the gut of the mosquito larvae when they eat it, causing the larvae to starve to death. Vectolex - Bacillus sphaericus (Bs) This is closely related to Bti and has similar benefits but is considered a true biological control due to the fact that it persists as mid-June and continue throughout the season. consultation and technical assistance regarding West Nile Virus control to communities throughout Colorado and the nation. From 2004-2008, the CDC tested all mosquitoes trapped in Fort Collins and Loveland to research the best predictors of human WNV disease. This research led to the development of several risk indicators, including the vector index to estimate levels of WNV-infected mosquitoes in a community and potential risk of human outbreaks. The City uses the risk index as one element of the action thresholds as described in the program response guidelines. CDC employees have served as TAC members, though not as official representatives of the CDC; they represent their individual views. CSU contributes to the WNV management program in multiple ways. Since 2009, the university has provided mosquito testing for WNV for a fee, since the CDC no longer performs the service following completion of the project to evaluate the risk index. The City of Loveland also uses these testing services provided by CSU. In addition, CSU faculty have participated on The cost of testing is defrayed partially by partnering with Loveland to access the testing services on a “pay as you test” arrangement. 2009 CSU cost: $33,296 Loveland portion: $2,220 2010 CSU cost: $33,608 Loveland portion: $3,801 2011 CSU cost: $22,872 Loveland portion: $2,597 In 2011, an additional lab in CSU helped to reduce the cost for WNV positive mosquito testing due to an ongoing research project. There was also a significant budget reduction, which reduced early- and late-season trapping and testing. In the 2011-2012 budget cycles, due to the significant reduction in the WNV management budget, the TAC created recommendations to address the budget shortfall. This included shortening the season to simply cover June, July and August. The main elements of the program were not impacted, but the season was shortened, and outreach programs were the 2007 WNV season, the City Manager directed staff to form the citizen Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) made up of community members who are subject matter experts and concerned citizens appointed by the City Manager. The review of the WNV management program began in the fall of 2007. 2008 The TAC, formed in late 2007, was comprised of representatives from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, Colorado State University, an environmental consultant, members of the Natural Resources and Air Quality Advisory Boards, and the medical community of Larimer County. There is a great depth of local knowledge in the area of infectious disease and integrated mosquito management. Committee members also included employees of the CDC and US Department of guidelines include the full spectrum of WNV activity - from offseason through a WNV outbreak. The program response guidelines were developed by staff, with advice from the TAC, based on the Council-adopted West Nile Virus Policy. TAC members presented information from the State of California's WNV programming which included a response guideline model. Some TAC members found the California example was more accessible and more easily understandable to laypeople than the current City program response guidelines, which were administratively adopted in 2013. The California example uses different thresholds and so would need to be adapted to reflect Fort Collins' WNV Management Plan. Staff drafted program response guidelines that reflect the California example. Because the timing for implementing the operational phase of the 2014 season is so close, this process will be undertaken during the 2014 season and reviewed after it has been implemented, in 2015. Staff expects to review any program response guideline improvements with the TAC and include the group's feedback in a final plan. Currently, these guidelines are not formally incorporated into the WNV Management Plan or Policy. Maintain As-Is A TAC option is that the program response guideline documents not change at this time. A comprehensive review conducted by a third-party expert could be done to develop an alternative decision document in the style of the State of California response guidelines. Development of this document will take additional discussions and data, perhaps years of development to completely perfect, but the concept is to simplify the program response guidelines in order to increase public understanding of the response thresholds. Maintaining the program response guidelines without change retains the human case threshold at “More than one human case being reported per week in Fort Collins” and would also retain the 0.75 vector index. Remove Human Cases Human cases are reported three to four (3-4) weeks after disease onset or four to five (4-5) weeks after transmission, meaning this is a lagging indicator because reports to public health officials by a doctor follows No opt out at all Pesticide Sensitivity Registry opt out only Opt out registered businesses with education Voluntary opt out with education