Trained citizen scientists in 13 Maine towns are mapping vernal pools, assisted by Maine Audubon, which won a $47,000 national grant last year for voluntary vernal pool conservation that engages landowners, community leaders, and residents.

Vernal pools, or “spring pools,” usually contain water for only part of the year and serve as critical breeding habitat in Maine for species such as wood frogs, fairy shrimp, and different kinds of salamanders. They provide essential food and feeding and resting areas for endangered and threatened turtles as well as wading birds, waterfowl, deer, moose, and small mammals.

This informational meeting will provide information about the mapping project, discuss the preliminary results from 2009, and seek to recruit volunteers. A Field Training will follow on Thursday , April 15th, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

Meet in the Council Chambers.