Spray Planes Combat Huge Locust Swarms in East Africa

Spray Planes Combat Huge Locust Swarms in East Africa
A farmer looks back as she walks through swarms of desert locusts feeding on her crops, in Katitika village, Kenya, on Jan. 24, 2020. Ben Curtis/AP Photo
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NASUULU CONSERVANCY, Kenya—As locusts by the billions—yes, billions—descend on parts of Kenya in the worst outbreak in 70 years, small planes are flying low over affected areas to spray pesticides in what experts call the only effective way to control the insects.

It’s challenging work, especially in remote areas where mobile phone signals are absent and ground crews can’t quickly communicate coordinates to flight teams.