The public is
invited to attend a free workshop in which they can learn how to help assess
the health of wetlands in the Calumet Region by monitoring frog populations
on Tuesday, Feb. 23, at the Meadowbrook Conservation Center in Valparaiso.
Staff from Shirley
Heinze Land Trust, The Field Museum, and Indiana University Northwest will
present the workshop which will start at 7 p.m. and close at 9 p.m. Hosting
will be Alan Resetar, Amphibian and Reptile Collections Manager at The Field
Museum.
The Meadowbrook
Conservation Center and Preserve is located at 109 W. 700 N., in Liberty
Township.
By monitoring frog
populations, citizen scientists can provide an important resource for land
managers and herpetologists by collecting large amounts of data that would
otherwise be unattainable. The abundance and distribution of frogs over time
is an important indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems, as frogs are
very sensitive to changes in their environment. Land managers utilize these
indicator species as an early warning sign of a declining habitat.
Workshop
participants will learn about characteristics of each species, their
preferred habitat, and how to identify their calls. Participants will be
given a data collection protocol, survey sheet, and CD with audio frog calls
of the various species found in the region. Newcomers to the program will be
assigned a preserve or natural area close to their home, or they can attend
the session just to learn about the issue.
To RSVP, or for
information, please call Shirley Heinze Land Trust at (219) 242-8558 and ask
for Jim or email jerdelac@heinzetrust.org