The East Flagler Mosquito Control District (EFMCD) collected 1,441 tires during its annual Tire Amnesty Days event held May 29–31, 2026 — the most tires collected in the program’s history.
More than 140 Flagler County residents participated in the free three-day event, dropping off tires at the District’s headquarters, where staff assisted with collection for recycling and proper disposal. The event was made possible through a partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which provides funding and support for waste tire amnesty programs across the state.
District commissioners credited the record turnout to growing community awareness and increased outreach efforts leading up to the event.
“Planning, prevention, and our dedicated employees keep the residents of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District safe from life-threatening, mosquito-borne diseases,” said Commissioner Perry Mitrano. “We thank our community partners for assisting in getting the word out, and everyone who came out to take part. We look forward to seeing you again next year.”
Why Old Tires Are a Mosquito Problem
Discarded tires are among the most common mosquito breeding sites. According to the EFMCD, water collected in a single tire has the potential to produce hundreds of mosquitoes. The species that most commonly breeds in tires and similar containers in the district is Aedes albopictus — an aggressive daytime mosquito that is not affected by the nighttime treatments used to control adult mosquitoes.
In 2021, 30% of all resident mosquito complaints submitted to the EFMCD identified containers — including tires, ornamental bromeliads, and buckets — as the primary source of the problem. The district encourages residents to remove standing water containers around their homes as one of the most effective steps they can take to reduce local mosquito populations.
About the District
The East Flagler Mosquito Control District was established in 1952 to control salt marsh mosquitoes and make the area livable year-round. The district works to suppress 48 mosquito species found in Flagler County using a variety of control methods, with container removal being a key strategy for two of those species. District operations are funded by property tax revenue.
For more information, contact Outreach Specialist Nicole Graves at (386) 225-5726 or nicole@flaglermosquito.gov.
