Step Into the World of Vector Control: Free Family-Friendly Open House

Join us on Saturday, September 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for an exciting day hosted by the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District (MSMVCD).

Step behind the scenes and discover how MSMVCD works year-round to protect public health at our Open House. This free, family-friendly event invites residents of all ages to explore hands-on activities, interactive displays, and live demonstrations that highlight the District’s Integrated Vector Management Program.

Educational displays will showcase mosquito and tick surveillance methods used to identify and prevent emerging threats to public health, non-toxic rodent control strategies, and simple tips for reducing mosquito sources around the home.

The Open House is designed to be both educational and fun, with something for everyone, from curious kids to engaged adults. Guests can learn how mosquito traps work, meet the vector control technicians who respond to service requests, and leave with practical, easy-to-use information to help protect their families and neighborhoods.

A platter of colorful mini cups holds BBQ and sour cream & onion flavored larvettes (edible larvae).
A woman and a child engage with a display featuring educational materials and a microscope at an event, with balloons in the background.
A lively scene at an event, where a woman talks to visitors near a beehive display with honey-related images on a table.
A crowd gathers at an event with booths, featuring children engaging in activities, likely related to bug education or control.
A woman at a booth called "Auntie T's Insectaurant" presents colorful edible insect treats and a related book.
A woman stands at a booth for a Backyard Bugs Contest, while a mascot in a striped bug costume waves at attendees.
A person is interacting with a jar labeled "MY BUG-" containing small insects, alongside a decorated ladybug container.
A group of people explores a science exhibit featuring microscopes and educational materials, with a focus on ticks.
A person in a purple sweatshirt sits on a vehicle next to a person in a striped ant costume, with balloons in the background.
The image shows people by various vehicles, including ATVs and a utility vehicle, near a building with a green exterior.
A display booth focused on tick surveillance and testing, including info on common ticks, maps, and testing equipment.
An interactive game area with a blue kiddie pool filled with rubber ducks, inviting players to "Fishin' for Larvae."
Children and adults are playing a fishing game with plastic ducks in a blue kiddie pool at an indoor event.
A family interacts with an exhibit about bees and wasps, featuring displays and educational materials.
A platter of colorful mini cups holds BBQ and sour cream & onion flavored larvettes (edible larvae).
A woman and a child engage with a display featuring educational materials and a microscope at an event, with balloons in the background.
A lively scene at an event, where a woman talks to visitors near a beehive display with honey-related images on a table.
A crowd gathers at an event with booths, featuring children engaging in activities, likely related to bug education or control.
A woman at a booth called "Auntie T's Insectaurant" presents colorful edible insect treats and a related book.
A woman stands at a booth for a Backyard Bugs Contest, while a mascot in a striped bug costume waves at attendees.
A person is interacting with a jar labeled "MY BUG-" containing small insects, alongside a decorated ladybug container.
A group of people explores a science exhibit featuring microscopes and educational materials, with a focus on ticks.
A person in a purple sweatshirt sits on a vehicle next to a person in a striped ant costume, with balloons in the background.
The image shows people by various vehicles, including ATVs and a utility vehicle, near a building with a green exterior.
A display booth focused on tick surveillance and testing, including info on common ticks, maps, and testing equipment.
An interactive game area with a blue kiddie pool filled with rubber ducks, inviting players to "Fishin' for Larvae."
Children and adults are playing a fishing game with plastic ducks in a blue kiddie pool at an indoor event.
A family interacts with an exhibit about bees and wasps, featuring displays and educational materials.

Whether you are stopping by to learn, ask questions, or enjoy a day of discovery, the District’s Open House offers a welcoming opportunity to connect with the people dedicated to keeping Marin and Sonoma counties safe from mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases.

  • Kid-friendly activities (balloon animals, bounce house, games and prizes)
  • Field equipment will be on display (airboat, ARGOs, and more)
  • Live tick and mosquito displays
  • Tick-bite prevention tips and free tick removers
  • Information about non-toxic rodent control and prevention
  • Educational displays about yellowjackets and honey bees
  • Free lunch and refreshments