Vernal Pool Patrol Newaygo Region: Spring In-the-Field Training

The Vernal Pool Patrol, organized by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, is one of the country's pioneering statewide vernal pool monitoring programs. This program owes its success to the dedicated community scientists who are passionate about nature and committed to preserving Michigan’s unique ecosystems. As part of the larger Michigan Vernal Pools Partnership, the Vernal Pool Patrol aims to advance vernal pool research and conservation across the state.

NCEC is the VPP Coordinator for the Newaygo Region. At this training, you will learn how to identify and report to the MNFI Newaygo County's woodland vernal pools as you go out on your spring hikes.

Info: The workshop will begin with an overview of vernal pools and reporting
guidelines. This is also an opportunity to meet other vernal pool enthusiasts and ask questions before we head out to the forest. (Bathrooms available, waders available, monitoring kits available, VPP swag for purchase, prizes, water/hot cocoa/coffee/tea available). Bring your own water bottle and snack.

Info: Hands-on spring monitoring of the vernal pool: learn proper protocols, try out monitoring tools, ask questions, discover remarkable wildlife, and learn how to correctly report your findings via the Survey 123 app or on paper (as well as how to get this information to the MNFI scientist who is using this research). Waders are available to borrow. Having the SURVEY 123 app, ready to use, on your smartphone (if you took the online course) will be especially helpful.

Info: Returning to the Kropscott house (bathrooms and hot beverages), we will examine samples up close using microscopes. We will complete the monitoring visit on both the paper form and the SURVEY 123 app. We will then see how to upload this data to the MNFI map or turn it in for research use.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Kropscott Farm Environmental Center, 6523 West Baseline Road, Fremont, United States