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Vernal Pools
Vernal
pools are unique wildlife habitats best known for the amphibians and
invertebrate animals that use them to breed. Vernal pools, also known
as ephemeral pools, autumnal pools, and temporary woodland ponds, typically
fill with water in the autumn or winter due to rising ground water and
rainfall and remain ponded through the spring and into summer. Vernal
pools dry completely by the middle or end of summer each year, or at
least every few years. Occasional drying prevents fish from establishing
permanent populations. Many amphibian and invertebrate species rely
on breeding habitat that is free of fish predators. Find out much more
about vernal pools and what is found in them in Massachusetts by ordering
our Field
Guide to the Animals of Vernal Pools.
Some vernal pools are protected in Massachusetts under the Wetlands Protection Act regulations, as well as several other federal and state regulations, and local bylaws. The NHESP serves the important role of officially "certifying" vernal pools that are documented by citizens. Finding vernal pools is the first step for protection. The Massachusetts Aerial Photo Survey of Potential Vernal Pools has been produced by the NHESP to help locate likely vernal pools across the state. Learn about how vernal pools are protected, how to certify a vernal pool, and about the resources that are available from the NHESP and other organizations.
Contact the Department of Environmental Protection regarding the regulatory protection of certified vernal pools.
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