Cornell Cooperative Extensions of Chautauqua and Erie Counties are leading a regional initiative to increase awareness of tick-borne diseases and tick management in the Western New York Region, with a second opportunity to participate in the WNY Tick Awareness Forum from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday at the Franklin W. Bratt Ag Center in Jamestown.

Lyme disease and several other devastating tick-borne diseases are on the rise in New York due to an increase in the prevalence of ticks and human-tick encounters. Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the state Legislature have deemed Lyme and other tick-borne diseases a public health priority and are working to raise awareness about ticks, tick avoidance and management. The presentation will be led by Lynn Braband of the state Integrated Pest Management system, health department officials and a panel of community leaders.

Those who register by Monday will receive a free tick removal kit. The event will also offer light refreshments and an opportunity to participate in an interactive question and answer session. The cost to register is $5 a person; registration begins 30 minutes prior.

There are multiple ways to participate. The main event will be held in Chautauqua County at the Frank Bratt Agricultural Center, 3542 Turner Road, Jamestown. There will also be satellite locations to view the event or join a live stream via Facebook. Register online by visiting www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua. To register, email Katelyn Walley-Stoll, CCE-Chautauqua County, at kaw249@cornell.edu or call 664-9502 ext. 202.

Satellite viewing in Cattaraugus County will be held at CCE-Cattaraugus, 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville; to register, call Tamara Bacho at 669-2377 or email tsb48@cornell.edu.