Searching for Vernal Pools

Vernal pools are a special type of wetland habitat, and knowing where they are can inform conservation efforts. Students from Plymouth State University are mapping vernal pools in the Newfound Watershed, and they are asking for your help!

As winter comes to an end and spring approaches, snow melt, spring rains, and rising ground water collect in natural low lying areas, forming vernal pools. Vernal pools are temporary bodies of water that can range in size from a few square feet to several acres during wet seasons. They provide essential breeding habitat for amphibians like wood frogs and spotted salamanders and support a diverse range of plants and animals.

Vernal pools, and the frogs, salamanders, and other life they support are an important part of a healthy Newfound Watershed. Plymouth State University Environmental Science & Policy students are working with NLRA to map vernal pools, and they need your help!

Do you know of a vernal pool in the Newfound Watershed? Help PSU students locate vernal pools by filling out this survey:

How do you identify a vernal pool? Here are some key characteristics:

• Shallow pool of water that may dry up completely in summer.
• No fish.
• No flowing water coming into or leaving the pool.
• Sights and sounds of key species including wood frogs, spotted salamanders, and fairy shrimp.
• Sightings of other species that use vernal pools including dragonfly larvae, caddisfly larvae, and spire-shaped snails.

For a complete guide to vernal pool identification and documentation, check out this digital booklet from NH Fish and Game:

Upcoming NLRA Events

Visit NewfoundLake.org/events 

to register and see all upcoming events.

Ice Cold Success!

10 participants jumped into Newfound during the Newfound Lake Inn's Polar Plunge fundraiser, inspiring 78 supporters to raise nearly $7,000 for NLRA's conservation programs.

Despite arctic conditions and a wind chill in the single digits, ten participants gleefully took to the water through a hole in the ice wearing tutus, colorful wigs, and sparkly swimwear, while a crowd of onlookers cheered them on. Thank you to the Newfound Lake Inn for hosting the Polar Plunge, to the brave souls that signed up to participate, and to everyone who donated!

Photos courtesy of Robin Goldstein.

"Stay on the Trail" in Muddy Conditions

Mud season has come early to Newfound! Help protect Newfound's natural areas by staying on the trail in all conditions.

You may find slush, puddles, and mud on your favorite trails in the watershed. Going "off trail" and around challenging trail conditions damages sensitive trail-side ecosystems and can lead to erosion. Follow these tips for maximum enjoyment and minimum environmental impact on the trails this spring:

• Wear the right footwear. Wear waterproof footwear and bring ice cleats for icy conditions.
• Stick to the trail. Be prepared to stick to the middle of the trail even when wet, muddy, or icy. Stepping off designated trails to avoid mud or standing water can cause erosion and damage ecosystems.
• Timing makes a difference. Muddy areas are more likely to be firm or frozen in the early morning..
• Pick your trail thoughtfully. Stick to drier trails as much as possible and give wet areas time to dry out.

Find more responsible recreation tips at Leave No Trace: LNT.org.