Gaps
There are vernal pools in all counties across the state but the map shows some serious gaps. Please help spread the word and invite others to use iNaturalist to broaden our reach all across Ohio.
There are vernal pools in all counties across the state but the map shows some serious gaps. Please help spread the word and invite others to use iNaturalist to broaden our reach all across Ohio.
Comments
I have five observations from my vernal pool added, but I do not see it on the map. This will be its second year and due to ridiculous of pipeline construction (i.e.destruction)and expanded farming I am expecting even more creatures this year. Since I know I safeguarded about 150 salamanders that don't even belong in my area last spring I want to make sure my pool is registered. Also, since there was more life in it than I could possible come to understand in a year I would like to learn to protect this area.
Lizzie, vernal pools are not mapped, but I wish they were. Massachusetts is the only state I am aware of with an official registry of vernal pools. They also enjoy a level of protection as a result. One goal of this project is to document where species that rely on vernal pools reside. For instance, the mole salamanders lay their eggs only in vernal pools, probably the same pool where they themselves hatched. Since iNaturalist lets us post where the species are, we have a better idea where the pools are. This is a bit fuzzy in reality since many members obscure their data points. Keep posting your observations and the location will become more clear.
Protection is achieved by a couple of things. 1) the property owner manages the site with care, 2) the EPA regulates building permits. Vernal pools are often overlooked by the EPA, especially when they are small. This throws it back on the owner to do the right thing. Many people across Ohio put their rich habitats and superior farmland into conservation easements with the help of a land conservancy.
I hope this helps. If you want to continue by email, contact me at ray@OHwetlands.org
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