Join CT vernal pool expert and professional wetland scientist Edward Pawlak for an eye-opening spring vernal pool walk at Aspetuck Land Trust’s Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve.
Vernal pools or "spring pools" are shallow depressions that usually contain water for only part of the year. They are often associated with forested wetlands and are vitally important because they serve as essential breeding habitat for certain species of wildlife, including salamanders and frogs.
Of all the natural resources that grace the Connecticut landscape, vernal pools are among the most unique and imperiled. The Trout Brook Valley Preserves are blessed with a collection of vernal pools teeming with the beginning of life - a veritable nursery in a puddle - protected only by the temporary nature of their habitat allowing them time to develop and grow before predators arrive. Especially important to keep dogs and humans from trampling through these fragile ecosystems during these spring months.
Please note, there are no bathroom facilities.
Open to the public. Priority to members. Maximum 35 people. RSVP required.
Directions: Follow Black Rock Turnpike (Rt 58) 6.8 miles north of Merritt Pkwy, parking at Jump Hill is directly off Black Rock Turnpike opposite Country Club Lane.