In an effort to deepen their understanding of mosquitoes and their impact, the University of Illinois is extending an invitation to citizen scientists across Champaign County. This collaborative project offers enthusiasts the chance to contribute valuable data by participating in a new initiative.
According to a recent press release, this initiative is part of the Prairie Research Institute’s Mosquito Ambassador Program. This ambitious project seeks to increase awareness about diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, promote prevention in local neighborhoods, and enhance the overall data on mosquito populations throughout Illinois.
The program is ingeniously designed to deploy user-friendly kits that allow participants to collect mosquito eggs. Such widespread community involvement enables researchers to extend their data collection far beyond what would be feasible without the help of dedicated volunteers.
Kylee Noel, a researcher with the Illinois Natural History Survey, emphasized the inclusivity of the program by stating, “Anyone can participate and help us identify which mosquito species are present throughout the state. This participation provides us with knowledge about what mosquito-borne diseases may be present in a given area.”
Each of these kits includes materials used to collect mosquito eggs for one week and send them back to the lab. The only thing volunteers need is a postage stamp. Participants of the program will fill out a short online survey that asks about mosquito prevention and knowledge.
These kits can currently be picked up at the following locations:
- Urbana Free Library — 210 West Green Street, Urbana
- Completed kits can be returned at this location to save postage for participants. Plastic cups that come in the kits can also be returned to this location to be reused.
More pickup locations will be added in the future. Additionally, pick up is only available on select days. Those interested in the program are asked to call 217-300-5941 or email Noel at krnoel@illinois.edu to schedule a pickup.
“It can be easy to think of mosquitoes just as nuisances, but my hope is that this program will shed light on the danger of mosquito-borne diseases and provide information to help protect people from mosquito bites,” Noel said.