Citizen Scientists to Collect Tick Species in Special Kits from Environmental Health
Pitt County Environmental Health invites residents to become citizen scientists for a study documenting tick species encountered in Pitt County.
The study, conducted by North Carolina State University (NCSU), invites Pitt County residents to submit ticks they come into contact with naturally in North Carolina. Pitt County Environmental Health is partnering with NCSU to distribute free tick collection kits.
“Knowing which ticks are biting humans is the first step in preventing disease transmission – each species carries its own risks, and identifying them helps target treatment, guide research, and protect public health,” says Amanda Morrison, Pitt County Vector Control Program Manager.
Pitt County citizen scientists must be 18 years or older and are required to collect ticks, complete a survey and mail findings via a postage-paid return envelope.
The study will evaluate a citizen science approach to tick surveillance and exposure risk in North Carolina.
Participation Details
- Citizen scientists must submit ticks removed from themselves. Ticks removed from animals are not part of this study.
- Tick kits should come from the same time and location. Different kits must be used for other times and locations.
- Participants must fill out a survey for each kit.
- No personal information will be shared and participants will not be identified from their responses.
- There is no pay for participation in the study.
Free tick kits can be picked up from Pitt County Environmental Health located in the Development Services building in the County Administration Complex at 1717 West 5th Street, Greenville, N.C.
Additionally, free kits may be picked up at the Leroy James Farmers Market through Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Environmental Health staff will be at the market with media availability on Tuesday, July 15 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The Farmers Market is located at 4560 County Home Road, Greenville, NC.
Morrison continues, “partnering with the farmers market provides an opportunity to connect with the community and share our programs and resources through education and engagement.”
Each kit will include a postage-paid return envelope, collection tubes and a short survey for participants to complete. Citizen scientists may submit their findings as many times as they encounter ticks.
Collection kits may be submitted through November 2025.
For more information,
contact Amanda Morrison,
252-902-3210
Amanda.morrison@pittcountync.gov.