Monday, Jan 30, 2023
Register for this years Vernal Pool Patrol Training series! Get involved in the Vernal Pool Patrol, a statewide community science monitoring program that trains volunteers to use a standard protocol to map and collect data on their local vernal pools!
This virtual training (via Zoom) will provide information and resources to those interested in participating in the Michigan Vernal Pool Patrol or just interested in learning more about these important wetlands. The training will consist of three parts/sessions presented on Wednesday evenings, March 15, 22, and 29 from 6:00-8:00 pm EST. If you are interested in participating in the Vernal Pool Patrol, please plan on attending ALL three sessions. It is also highly recommended that you attend a field workshop (dates and registration TBD).
- 1 - Introduction to Vernal Pools - Wednesday, March 15 - 6:00 - 8:00 pm EST what they are, their key characteristics, their ecological importance, and conservation efforts in Michigan including the Vernal Pool Patrol and how you can get involved.
- 2 - Vernal Pool Ecology - Wednesday, March 22 - 6:00 - 8:00 pm EST Overview of vernal pool ecology in Michigan focusing on plants and animals commonly found in vernal pools, how to identify them and their ecology, particularly vernal pool indicator species.
- 3 - Vernal Pool Monitoring - Wednesday, March 29 - 6:00 - 8:00 pm EST In-depth training on the Michigan Vernal Pool Patrol program, including program components, data collection protocol, survey data form/mobile application, how to monitor and collect quality data on a vernal pool(s) in your area, supplies needed, and available resources.
Training sessions will be recorded and made available to all registered participants. Those who cannot attend the live trainings can watch the recordings. Current Vernal Pool Patrol community scientists and local program coordinators also are welcome to attend the trainings if you would like to get a refresher on the training and learn about updates to the program. Participants just interested in learning more about vernal pools and/or the Vernal Pool Patrol are welcome to attend one or as many sessions as you would like!
For more information about the Michigan Vernal Pool Patrol and/or these training sessions, please contact Yu Man Lee (leeyum@msu.edu) or Courtney Ross (rosscour@msu.edu) with the Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) or visit the Vernal Pool Patrol website - Vernal Pool Patrol Hub