squam lakes participatory sciences

Come spring, amphibians will begin migrating from their woodland wintering sites to their breeding grounds which are located in lowland wetlands and vernal pools. A main danger for them during this time is crossing roads. Many of our roads cut through these habitats, and the cars using them cause disturbing levels of death and injury to many of these amphibians during "big nights," rainy or wet evenings that are warm enough for amphibians to make their journey.

To help amphibian survival chances during migration, volunteers put on their rain gear, reflective vests and headlamps to assist in the amphibians' crossing. This will be our second season going out on rainy spring nights to assist amphibians across the major roads, decreasing mortality, and increasing their chances of getting to their breeding pools. 

Volunteers also identify species and tally how many are crossing their site. Once complete, the Squam Lakes Association shares this data with with NH Fish and Game for the Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program (RAARP). These data collected by volunteers helps towns and cities identify at risk amphibian habitat. Two roads in Keene, NH are now temporarily closed on big nights so amphibians may cross the street safely thanks to Salamander Brigade volunteers and the Harris Center for Conservation Education! 

SLA is serving as the main hub for volunteer involvement, and we're working in partnership with the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, a group with extensive wildlife expertise, and the Squam Lakes Conservation Society, which helps protect many of the habitats these amphibians depend on.

The Harris Center for Conservation Education offers a wealth of resources for the salamander brigade volunteers. They also host yearly virtual training on the duties and skills necessary for serving at a crossing site. Training is required for participation with the SLA's Squam Salamander Survey. Interested SLA volunteers can sign up for the Harris Center's virtual training, view past trainings, or reach out to the SLA directly.

If you're interested in volunteering for the Squam Salamander Survey, email [email protected] or use the button below.

Since we will be working on wet roads in the dark, volunteer safety and visibility is the top priority.

Big nights are always rainy or wet and often cold (40°F at the lowest). Proper gear to stay dry and warm is key.

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