Opposed to Genetically Modified Mosquitos

Email to CMCD

Dear Collier County Mosquito Control Commissioners,

I understand you are considering a pilot program of releasing genetically modified mosquitos in the Golden Gate area in anticipation of a full roll-out to Collier County in Spring. I would

like to express my opposition to this.

There are limited studies on genetically modified mosquitos and the long term effects and results of using this approach are unknown. What appears to be well understood in the lab can have unintended consequences when released on a large scale into the environment. There could be chain consequences down the line to other species that feed off these modified mosquitos, changing their genetics. At this point we don’t fully understand the consequences.

The bottom line is not enough is known about something that could dangerously affect humans and other animals. It's best to err on the side of caution for a large populace such as ours and not pursue this approach.

Respectfully,

Julie Kapler

Old Naples Resident