2012 Training Program - Segment 3
Vernal Pool Ecology and Monitoring

Introduction

Vernal pools are considered watercourses under the Connecticut Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act. Vernal pools provide important habitat for a high diversity of organisms including species with life cycles adapted exclusively to this specific watercourse. This Segment 3 program provided a brief review of the authority Connecticut's municipal inland wetlands agencies have in relation to these unique watercourses; presented an overview of the ecology of vernal pools, including vernal pool identification in the dry season; and discussed the Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists Vernal Pool Monitoring Program.

Background Materials

• Location: CT Forest and Park Association, Middletown
• Segment 3 Program Brochure
• Agenda and Instructors

Classroom Presentations

• Municipal Inland Wetlands Agency Authority Regarding Vernal and Other Temporary Watercourses
• Characteristics and Ecology of Vernal Pools
• CT Association of Wetland Scientists Vernal Pool Monitoring Program Presentation

Supplemental Training Materials

• Connecticut Wildlife Magazine article, "An Ecological Spring Awakening in Our Vernal Pools"
• List of useful vernal pool websites and references
• Vernal Pool Breeding Amphibian Egg Mass Identification
• Photos of vernal pool dry season indicators
• Vernal pool dry season indicator data sheet
• Potential vernal pool questions for consultants offered by Connecticut Ecosystems, LLC
• CT Association of Wetland Scientists Vernal Pool Monitoring webpage

Content Last Updated March 17, 2020