Who Are We?
Vernal Pool Partners welcomes everyone interested in the protection, restoration, and enjoyment of vernal pools.
Current Partners Include:
What is a Vernal Pool?
Vernal pools are dynamic habitats with cycles of standing water and periodic dry downs that exclude permanent populations of predatory fish.
Vernal pools provide:
Ecological Services for Species
• Important breeding habitat for amphibians • Support of aquatic and terrestrial food webs • Stepping stones within the landscape
Ecological Services for People
• Pollution removal • Groundwater replenishment • Natural mosquito control • Connection to nature
Citizen Science
Find and record vernal pools with Patapsco Heritage Greenway
Take advantage of all that the area has to offer. We'll be leading some outdoor hikes to learn about vernal pools, and what we can find in them.
Legislative Action
Support Legislation that Protects Vernal Pools
We would love for you to get involved in our efforts!
Vernal Pool Wetlands Protection Act of 2026!
Delegate Hill and Senator Washington are co-sponsoring the Vernal Pool Wetlands Protection Act of 2026. Please consider contacting your Delegate and Senator to vote “YES” on the Vernal Pool Wetlands Protection act of 2026.
House HB 701 hearing on February 16
Senate SB 523 hearing on February 20
See the fact sheet and presentation below for more information.
Wildlife Connectivity and Crossings Act – PASSED!
“Vernal pools are unique backyard ecosystems and the only places wood frogs and mole salamanders can breed. These wondrous species also need safe passage from their terrestrial habitats to these breeding pools, so the Wildlife Connectivity and Crossings Act will be a life saver.” — Mark Southerland PhD, Vernal Pool Partners
Want more information? Have questions, please contact us:
Want more information? Have questions, please contact us: