”Vernal” means “in, of, or appropriate to spring.” “Pool” means “a small area of still water, typically one formed naturally.” But put them together and you have a magical temporary wetland without which many species would not be able to breed.
On Saturday, April 23 from 10AM-12:30PM, join naturalist and Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Lynne Flaccus for a vernal pool exploration at the CLC’s Clark Reserve (directions below). Join us for a few hours of discovery in the woods, learning about vernal pools and the amazing creatures that breed and live there.
Vernal pools are small seasonal and temporary wetlands that ‘’spring” to life soon after snowmelt. Several forest amphibians depend on these seasonal wetlands for their breeding habitat and as nurseries for their offspring, while spending most of their adult life in the surrounding forest. Wood frogs, spotted salamanders and fairy shrimp rely on vernal pools while many other amphibians and invertebrates also take advantage of these small wetlands and their abundance of life.
Come along and help us discover who is living in our neighborhood vernal pools and learn about their unique adaptations. Wear comfortable walking shoes/boots for the walk in, dress in layers for warmth, and bring water and a snack, if you like. All ages are welcome—this is a great activity for the whole family. Kids, please bring an adult with you. We’ll have a few nets and tools that we can use for careful exploration along the shore, and identification cards. Please leave your dog at home for this adventure! Please register in advance below so that we can reach you if plans change or the weather changes plans! We’ll let you know the location shortly before the event.
Naturalist Lynne Flaccus has 30 years of experience in land conservation and stewardship, managing protected properties, studying wildlife, and educating adults and children.
Directions to the Clark Reserve
From Chocorua Village, take Rt. 16 to Chocorua Lake Rd. Turn left onto Chocorua Lake Rd. and stay straight 1.6 mi. to wood road turn-off on right. The informal parking is on the wood road and marked with boulders across the road. Look for the posted map. (Please do not park beyond this in the next gated wood road). If you come to Philbrick Neighborhood Rd., you have gone past the parking spot.
Coming from Tamworth, take Rte. 113 E to Philbrick Neighborhood on left. Take left and stay on Philbrick Neighborhood Rd. 2.1 miles. Take a right on to Chocorua Lake Rd. /Fowlers Mill Rd. The parking spot will be the second wood road on the left. Look for the posted map near the boulders that block the path.
Banner image: Exploring a vernal pool. Photo: Lynne Flaccus