Vernal pools provide critical habitat for many species of frogs, salamanders, snakes, and turtles. These ephemeral spring ponds don't have fish in them, so amphibian eggs are able to hatch and mature to adulthood without being eaten. Though vernal pools enjoy extensive regulatory protection from development, amphibians are in deep trouble.

Pollution and chemical contaminants are a concern in nearly every landscape in the world. Amphibians are sensitive to contaminants, and deformities are increasingly being reported. Manomet has embarked on a broad inquiry, engaging stakeholders from private property owners to government agencies, to answer some fundamental questions. At the forefront is this: Are vernal pools collecting more than just spring rain?

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