Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan (LCWM) and the Newaygo County Environmental Coalition (NCEC) at McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve as we explore a fascinating habitat: vernal pools!  

Vernal pools are unique, seasonally flooded wetlands. They fill with rain and snowmelt in spring and disappear in summer. Despite their ephemeral nature, these wetlands are hubs for biodiversity, and feature a remarkable cast of invertebrates and amphibians that depend on them. 

Vernal pools are not well-protected wetlands under federal or state laws. Because they are small, isolated, and seasonal, they have also not been well documented in Michigan. That’s where the Vernal Pool Patrol comes in! The Vernal Pool Patrol program works with community scientists, adults and youth, and local program coordinators to identify, map, monitor, and provide data on vernal pools across the state. Information collected by Vernal Pool Patrol community scientists is submitted or entered into the statewide Michigan Vernal Pool Database, and will be used to help inform management and conservation of vernal pools and associated plants and animals in Michigan. 

NCEC’s Katie Clark (a Newaygo County Vernal Pool Patrol Coordinator) will lead us in this family-friendly, entry-level introduction to vernal pools as we learn about what natural features identify a vernal pool, the unique critters that depend on them, and how to get involved in the Vernal Pool Project.  

Register to Attend

We will meet at the south entrance to the nature preserve, off 14 Mile Road. To find this entrance, take 14 Mile Road until you see LCWM signage and a gate on the north side of the road. Parallel park along the sides of 14 Mile Road and hike in past the preserve sign until you reach the meeting location.