“We are a fluid association changing with science, regulations, and the needs of our membership.”  I stated that in my Message in the April Skeeter Scanner, and our MMCA Board proved that.  This past year’s Board was proactive and solution based, facing legislative, operational, and economic issues important to our membership.  I would like to extend my utmost respect and thanks to the 2009 MMCA Board and those members that volunteered in the name of the MMCA.  I write this “message” with a great sense of accomplishment and certainty that success will continue next year under incoming President Mary McCarry.

The MMCA was and still is confronted with issues new to the mosquito control landscape.  Legislative changes at the Federal level, the probable requirement of NPDES permits in mosquito control operations; the closing of MDA regional offices and the effects on certification and re-certification; the stark economic reality in Michigan. 

The Board contacted legislators and is currently working with the American Mosquito Control Association on the NPDES issue.  We will keep our membership up to date as to changes and what their effects will mean to our profession. 

Category 7F training was held on December 2^nd in response to the need for recertification, in lieu of MDA regional office closure (four 7F credits given).  What a success! We will have one or more this year, stay tuned.  The MMCA also remains a committed partner in the discussion of future changes in MDA certification and testing.

The value of mosquito control was promoted through MMCA presence at numerous events, comprised of professional and public meetings, including MDA and EPA events.  The MMCA joined the Michigan Association of Counties (MAC) realizing the opportunity to educate and campaign for community mosquito control.  We must remain active promoters.

Another top-notch conference will be realized February 3^rd & 4^th in beautiful downtown Traverse City, please get those registrations in, if you’ve misplaced yours they are available on our website www.mimosq.org.