the dynamics of the entire ecosystem (3).
PINPOINTING POOLS
As we came to understand the numerous threats facing this special habitat, we decided to do our part to protect them. We are currently studying ephemeral pools in our local area of Guilford County, NC, which is a highly urbanized area of the state. In general, ephemeral pools are difficult to protect due to their small size and temporary nature, which makes them tricky to locate. One considerable stride toward effective conservation of these pools —and, therefore, the species that depend upon them—is to know where they are. Using topographic maps, hydrology maps, and extensive collaboration with local naturalists, we are locating as many pools in the county as possible and compiling them on a map to be distributed to local conservation groups. A report is to then be provided with management recommendations. We have also assembled a landowner packet, full of valuable information about ephemeral pools, their importance, and how to contribute to their continued success. Data is being taken at each identified site in an attempt to better describe this unique habitat. We hope to use that data to characterize the areas where pools can be found, so that they could be more quickly and easily located and identified using GIS technology.
PERSPECTIVES FOR THE FUTURE
The implications of this investigation are substantial. Not only would it contribute in the conservation of critical habitat within the county, the information gathered throughout will expand public awareness of this habitat and its species and potentially improve location techniques.
Fig. 4. UNCG student, Courtney Anderson, looks for salamander larvae in a prospective ephemeral pool. Photo: Ashley LaVere.
Acknowledgements We would like to thank the North Carolina Herpetological Society and the Biology Department of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for funding for this project. We thank the Guilford County Open Space Committee for their wonderful assistance. We would also like to thank Ann Somers, Catherine Matthews, and Bill Markham for their advice, comments, and contributions. References 1. 2.
Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program, Vernal Pools, http://www. naturalheritage.state.pa.us/VernalPools.aspx (2013).
J. Wallace, N. Tarr, Conservation Recommendations for Priority Terrestrial Wildlife Species and Habitats in North Carolina (North Carolina Wildlife
Fig. 3. A Marbled salamander larvae in its early stages of development found in an ephemeral pool on the Blue Moon Preserve in Greensboro, North Carolina. Photo: Dennis Burnette.
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