Vernal Pool Season is On the Way! 

Spring is just around the corner! And so is vernal pool season! There are lots of ways to engage and explore vernal pools in Michigan thanks to the our awesome statewide network of partners. Use this page to find a local partner to connect with whether it be through mapping and monitoring your nearby vernal pools (the data you collect directly contributes to research!), dipping in your toes and learning more at a partner education event, or learning about the fascinating world of vernal pools and the MVPP's work to conserve them at this year's Annual Meeting on April, 14th, 2025. We hope to see you out in the field soon! 

Training & Event Calendar

Click the buttons and view our calendar below to learn how you can get involved in vernal pool conservation near you.

Contribute to science - help collect data and improve conservation of vernal pools in Michigan!

Little information is currently available on the status, distribution, and ecology of vernal pools in Michigan. We need the help of community/citizen scientists to verify and collect more information about vernal pools across the state. These data will help inform conservation of vernal pools. Attend the VPP virtual training series if you are interested in participating in the Michigan Vernal Pool Patrol or just interested in learning more about these important wetlands. The training will consist of three parts/sessions presented on Tuesday evenings, March 4, 11, and 18 from 6:00-8:00 pm EST. 

Practice your field skills - If you are planning on participating in the Vernal Pool Patrol this year, we highly recommend that you attend a field training! 

Organized by MNFI and Pool Patrol Program Coordinators, field trainings are an opportunity to practice data collection protocol and entering data in Survey 123 while in the field with experts. Trainings are available at locations across the state throughout the coming spring months. Dates to be announced soon! Email rosscour@msu.edu for questions. 

Dip your toes into the world of vernal pools - Partner events offer guided, family friendly explorations of vernal pools. Events vary, but include monitoring days, presentations, and vernal pool explorations. They are also a great way to get to know local conservation organizations in your area! Events to be announced soon!