Short Bites Monthly
Your digest for February 2026.
This Short Bites Monthly newsletter shares insight into the past month's activity. This ensures that our data as a public health agency remains transparent to the public and to people who are interested in our mission.
District Communication
We’ve hit the ground running this year! This month, we presented under bright lanterns, conducted black fly control in the foothills, and motivated residents to maintain a bite-free yard.
Up first, we’re hiring seasonal positions to enhance our mosquito control responses for SGV’s peak season. See details for available positions below:
We’re seeking dependable and team-oriented Extra-Help Vector Control Technicians to support our Operations Department during the 2026 season.
We’re seeking enthusiastic and community-minded Extra Help Outreach Assistants to support our Communications Department during the 2026 season.
Outreach In Your Community
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Mosquitoes In Your Community
To ensure a proactive and healthy start to the season, our routine surveillance efforts officially begin this March. They’ll begin deploying traps to monitor mosquito abundance, identifying local species, and conducting vital disease monitoring.
Black Flies & Ticks
This month, our Surveillance team conducted black fly trapping in the foothills and tick flagging in key areas around the San Gabriel Valley.
District Representation
Our staff has officially completed comprehensive strategic planning for the 2026. With our goals aligned and our operations prioritized, we are fully prepared and ready to get to work on the vital public health projects that keep our District safe.
Current EcoHealth Programs
Help shape the next generation with healthy and bite-free habits. Little Champions Preschool program will turn your students into little champions who care about their health and their community.
M.I.A. is a free, K-12, NGSS-aligned, hands-on science lesson, where students are empowered to take charge of their properties and halt the mosquito invasion.
Our Education Specialists are beginning Spring classroom programs where students will get hands-on experience with the tools of our trade. Additionally, they’re preparing laboratory materials for our upcoming Fall community science programs.
By engaging students in real-world data collection and environmental monitoring, we are ensuring that the next generation of San Gabriel Valley residents is equipped with the knowledge to understand and combat public health threats like mosquito-borne diseases.
Did you know that there's a lot of misinformation on Sterile Insect Technique (S.I.T.)?
We're here to clear that up through our S.I.T. Mythbusters series:
MYTH: S.I.T. is not proven safe.
FACT: S.I.T. programs have a safe and effective track record in other states and in multiple countries for the past 70 years. In the U.S., the approval process for Sterile Insect Technique (S.I.T.) involves both state and federal agencies, uses a phased approach guided by international safety guidelines and principles, and focuses on data collection, risk assessment, and integration with existing pest management. Use of S.I.T. requires permits and applicators must demonstrate safety and efficacy before area-wide releases can be made.
District Resources to Share
Explore how SGV Mosquito’s research and expertise contribute to vector control efforts in California.
Find out how Director of Scientific Programs, Tristan Hallum, was recognized for exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact on vector control and public health in California.
For more information, please visit BiteBackChampion.org or visit our website.
District Mission: Providing the highest level of protection from vectors & vector-borne diseases in San Gabriel Valley.
🖋 Written by Ally Gaspar