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GOAL 1: To monitor the spatial and temporal distribution of WNV vector species on the TMCR. <OL> <LI> To operate CDC light traps at 18 sites throughout the TMCR to collect adult female mosquitoes and identify them to species. <LI> To analyze the data and identify specific spatial and temporal patterns of vector species distribution. </ol> GOAL 2: to determine determine whether WNV are present in detectable levels in vector species on the TMCR. <OL> <LI> To assay adult female vector mosquitoes for WNV by RT-PCR. <LI>Estimate a minimum infection rate of each species found infected with either virus and analyze spatial and temporal patterns the prevalence of WNV on the TMCR.
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: West Nile virus is a danger to humans, horses and wildlife in North Dakota. Mosquitoes transmit the virus. The project will monitor where and when different mosquito species occur within the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Reservation. The project will monitor where and when West Nile virus occurs on the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Reservation.
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APPROACH: We will collect adult and immature mosquitoes from the Turtle Mountain Reservation, identify them to species, and assay them for West Nile virus. We will disseminate our results by presentations at professional meetings. Dr. Nasci from the CDC will evaluate the project.
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PROGRESS: 2004/09 TO 2006/09<BR>
We collected and identified 495 mosquito larvae in 2005 and 384 mosquito larvae in 2006. We collected and identified over 21,000 adult mosquitoes in 2005 and over 6,000 adult mosquitoes in 2006. We have compiled temporal and spatial data on occurrence of 32 mosquito species that inhabit our area, including 6 species that are West Nile Virus vectors. The most abundant species was Aedes vexans in both years. <BR> OUTCOMES: We have established baseline data for mosquito population densities, species composition and temporal occurrence of vectors. These data will influence WNV surveillance and control decisions by public health decision-makers at the tribal, state and federal level. Food and agriculture science and higher education in the U. S. will be enhanced by the fact that many students have gained valuable training and research experience in the agricultural sciences. All of the students hired at TMCC were Native American, thus increasing the diversity of students receiving scientific experience and training in agricultural science techniques. <BR> DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES: Two students presented research results at the annual national convention of the Entomological Society of America in November 2004. Two students, Shanda Poitra and Ezra Desjarlais, presented research results at the annual AIHEC Conference in April 2005. The PI presented the results of the research to local high school students and community members at the annual "College Awareness Day" event held at our college on October 20, 2006. <BR> FUTURE INITIATIVES: We will apply for funds to continue WNV surveillance.
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IMPACT: 2004/09 TO 2006/09<BR>
We have established baseline data for mosquito population densities, species composition and temporal occurrence of vectors. These data will influence WNV surveillance and control decisions by public health decision-makers at the tribal, state and federal level. Food and agriculture science and higher education in the U. S. will be enhanced by the fact that many students have gained valuable training and research experience in the agricultural sciences. All of the students hired at TMCC were Native American, thus increasing the diversity of students receiving scientific experience and training in agricultural science techniques.