Experience the Hidden World of Vernal Pools

…notice they’re learning. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, helping visitors discover this “special ecosystem” and its place in the larger watershed. “Every tour is different,” Becky says, “because you never…

Teacher’s Quick Links

…plants that call this unique ecosystem home. Take a tour through the three phases of the vernal pools: wet phase in winter, flowering phase in spring, and dry phase in…

Seed Shrimp

Many different species of Seed Shrimp live in vernal pools.  They come in many colors.  They have a single eye.  The body of a Seed Shrimp is protected by two…

Critter Spotlight: Wynken, Blynken, and Nod!

…as the substrate. The concept of a bioactive terrarium is to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where the toads live alongside soil microorganisms that gobble up the toad waste and help…

Highlights of 2024 Public Tours!

…feeling inspired and connected to the natural world. It was a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature and learn about the diverse ecosystem within the pools….

Little Quaking Grass

Little Quaking Grass is a member of the grass family.  Each grass flower is made up of a pair of tiny bracts, the stamens and pistil.  The flowers are grouped…

Aquatic Snails

Freshwater snails are not as colorful as their saltwater cousins.  In general, their shells come in shades of gray, brown, and black, often with flecks of yellow or white. Vernal…