Everyone Hates Ticks with Blake Dinius
- WRWA News
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 5 hours ago
Ticks continue to be a re-emerging concern to the health of both human and pets, with at least ten tick-borne diseases now present year-round in New England, including Lyme disease. Although these illnesses can be serious and seem daunting, a recent Nature Talk at our River Center highlighted an important message: with knowledge and awareness, we can all enjoy the outdoors safely.
About the Presentation
We were joined by Blake Dinius, an Extension Educator and former insect researcher who earned his Biology degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston. Blake spent seven years directing studies on bees, lacewings, springtails, earthworms, and other organisms, contributing to guidelines now used worldwide in ecotoxicology.
During the talk, he emphasized that all tick-borne diseases are preventable when we understand tick biology, adopt practical habits, and make informed decisions.
What Was Covered
Blake guided attendees through a science-based exploration of:
The mysteries of tick biology and ecology
The history of tick-borne diseases in America
Effective and empowering protection strategies
Simple landscaping methods to reduce tick encounters around the home
Key Takeaways
Ticks are active year-round, not just in summer, and awareness is essential.
Understanding tick behavior: how they search and what habitats they prefer helps us avoid exposure.
Daily prevention habits: proper long and tucked-in clothing, repellents specific for clothing or skin , frequent tick checks, significantly lower risk. (Refer to video below for specific repellent information)
Landscaping choices: spray repellents aren't as effective as you think, rather avoid creating large leaf piles and creating mulch borders as that can create tick "condos". This can help reduce tick presence in yards.
Fear isn’t helpful; knowledge is. When we understand the science, we can confidently enjoy the outdoors.
Watch & Download
▶️ Watch the recorded talk on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUD5S81t6RM
📄 Download the presentation PDF:
