DA Form 8024-R PDF: Larval Mosquito Collection – Mosquito-borne diseases pose a serious threat to military readiness, public health, and operations at US Army installations across the United States. Whether at domestic bases, training areas, or forward-deployed locations, early detection of mosquito breeding sites is essential for effective vector control. That’s where DA Form 8024-R – Larval Mosquito Collection (LRA) comes in. This official US Army form standardizes the documentation of larval mosquito surveillance, supporting integrated pest management (IPM) and preventive medicine programs.
In this comprehensive guide tailored for US Army personnel, preventive medicine technicians, entomologists, and public health officers, you’ll learn exactly what DA Form 8024-R is, why it matters, how to fill it out correctly, and where to download the latest fillable PDF. If you’re responsible for mosquito surveillance under Army regulations, this is your go-to resource.
What Is DA Form 8024-R?
DA Form 8024-R is the official Department of the Army form titled “Larval Mosquito Collection” (often abbreviated as LRA in program contexts). It was released in December 1991 and remains the current, authorized form for recording larval mosquito data.
- Proponent: Office of The Surgeon General (OTSG)
- Reference: For use of this form, see TB MED 561 (Occupational and Environmental Health: Pest Surveillance)
- Purpose: To document field collections of mosquito larvae for disease vector surveillance and control
This form is part of a family of mosquito surveillance tools that includes:
- DA Form 8023-R (Adult Mosquito Collection)
- DA Form 8025-R (Larval Mosquito Identification)
Together, these forms help Army preventive medicine (PVNTMED) teams track mosquito populations, identify high-risk breeding habitats, and guide targeted larvicide applications—reducing the need for broad adulticide spraying.
Why Larval Mosquito Collection Matters for US Army Operations?
Larval surveillance is a cornerstone of proactive mosquito control. By collecting and recording larvae (the immature “wigglers” stage), teams can:
- Identify breeding sites before adults emerge
- Estimate larval density (“number per dip”)
- Support data-driven decisions on larviciding
- Protect Soldiers from diseases such as West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and others prevalent in the continental United States
According to Army public health guidance, effective pest surveillance—including larval mosquito collection—helps maintain force health protection and complies with AR 40-5 and DA PAM 40-11. In the US, where many installations are located in high-risk mosquito habitats (wetlands, training ranges, and urban-adjacent areas), this form ensures compliance with both military and civilian vector control standards.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out DA Form 8024-R?
The form is simple, one-page, and designed for field use. Here are the exact fields and best practices for accurate completion:
- Installation – Enter the full name of the military installation or facility (e.g., Fort Liberty, NC or Joint Base Lewis-McChord).
- Collection Number – Assign a unique sequential number for tracking (e.g., 2026-001). This helps link collections to identification results on DA Form 8025-R.
- Collection Date – Use the standard military date format (DD MMM YYYY or as specified in local SOPs).
- Collection Site/Habitat – Provide a clear description of the location and habitat type (e.g., “Drainage ditch near Range 12 – stagnant water with vegetation” or GPS coordinates if required).
- Number per Dip – Record the average number of larvae per standard dip sample. Use a standard mosquito dipper and take multiple dips per site for accuracy. This is the key metric for assessing infestation levels.
- Collector – Print the name, rank, and unit of the person performing the collection.
- Remarks – Note any additional observations (e.g., water temperature, presence of other insects, suspected species, or control actions needed).
- Needed Supplies – List any follow-up items required (e.g., more dippers, larvicide, sample bottles).
Pro Tip: Always follow local SOPs and TB MED 561 guidelines for sampling technique. Multiple dips at different points in the habitat provide the most reliable “number per dip” data.
Best Practices for Larval Mosquito Surveillance in the US Army
- Conduct collections during peak breeding seasons (spring through fall in most US regions).
- Coordinate with installation entomologists or PVNTMED teams.
- Preserve samples properly if sending for species identification on DA Form 8025-R.
- Integrate data into the Defense Occupational and Environmental Health Readiness System (DOEHRS) or local tracking systems.
- Combine with adult trapping (DA Form 8023-R) for a complete picture of mosquito activity.
This process supports the Army’s commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and reduces reliance on chemical controls.
Download DA Form 8024-R PDF – Official Fillable Version
Official Download Link (direct from Army Publishing Directorate):
https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/A8024_R.pdf
This is the most current fillable PDF version. Save it to your device, complete it electronically or by hand in the field, and maintain records according to your unit’s retention policy.
Need related forms?
- DA Form 8025-R: Larval Mosquito Identification
- Search all DA forms at armypubs.army.mil
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is DA Form 8024-R still current in 2026?
A: Yes. It remains the authorized form listed on official Army sites and referenced in current public health publications.
Q: Who should use this form?
A: Preventive medicine technicians, environmental health officers, entomologists, and authorized mosquito control personnel at US Army installations.
Q: Where can I find instructions?
A: Refer to TB MED 561 (Pest Surveillance). Local PVNTMED offices can provide unit-specific guidance.
Q: Can civilians or contractors use it?
A: While designed for Army use, the form supports unified vector control efforts on military installations and is often used by supporting public health contractors.
Protect Readiness – Start Your Larval Surveillance Program Today
Accurate larval mosquito collection using DA Form 8024-R is a simple but powerful tool in the US Army’s fight against vector-borne diseases. By documenting breeding sites and larval density, you help safeguard Soldiers, families, and mission capability at installations nationwide.
Download your copy now and incorporate this form into your next surveillance cycle:
Official DA Form 8024-R PDF
Stay proactive. Stay protected. For more Army preventive medicine resources, visit armypubs.army.mil or consult your local PVNTMED team.