Midge Population:

Eastern Baltimore County

Newest Update: On July 17, 2025: I sent Secretary Atticks and all relevant stakeholders a letter regarding a funding opportunity that can be applied for by state agencies.

I’ll keep you updated as this situation unfolds. We would like to see a plan in place prior to the end of the year that indicates clear planning for the 2026 hatching season.

May Announcement:

I’ve long advocated for the water-based communities in Baltimore County, which continue to be impacted by persistent and overwhelming midge infestations. While these insects are not dangerous, they reproduce at an alarming rate and have been a growing nuisance in the area for nearly a decade.

In May 2025, I invited Secretary Kevin Atticks of the Maryland Department of Agriculture to join me, along with local representatives and key community stakeholders, to discuss the issue firsthand and plan mitigation efforts. When issues arise that directly affect our community, I believe in staying at the forefront to fight for meaningful solutions.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture has made previous efforts to address the problem. Although a $330,000 appropriation for midge control was initially struck from the FY18 budget, the department continued the work under Executive Order 01.01.2017.17. Since then, funding has steadily increased:

• In FY22, $400,000 was allocated for midge control in Baltimore County.

• In FY23, that amount doubled to $800,000.

• For FY26, the proposed allocation stands at $300,000.

As of July 17, 2025, we’ve been actively working with federal partners to secure additional support for BTI spraying operations along the waterfront. I remain committed to ensuring that our communities receive the attention and resources they need to reclaim their summers and enjoy life along the water.