Frog and Toad Survey. Why?

Friends of the Rouge offer several monitoring projects used to indicate environmental health. Their annual survey for frog and toads is now being positioned.

 Subtle but very informative, where they live and their thin skin expose them to our pollutants- and hence dying early. Monitoring their populations is surprisingly easy: all you need is your ears! Simply listen for their sounds after the sun goes down from March to July, several times per month in a quarter-mile area where you live or a site of your choice. Record that data several times per month and turn it in when done.  Simple to do, and very effective data! If you are one of the below, start by listening to a webinar coming this Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm. Offered via Zoom, here is the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83028972900?pwd=QxFlucaMyPDjb1F8JKf5vS2gQ0IGqg.1

The second is a workshop on Saturday February 21 starting at 10:00 am. More information can be found here:

https://volunteer.bloomerang.co/volunteer/#/join-party?k=g2qa60afxaollt

This is a “get out and hands on” activity that’s easily done. Maybe you are…

A parent with school‑age kids looking for local nature activities and STEM enrichment

Scout troops (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts), 4‑H, and church youth groups that need service projects and badge/award activities linked to conservation.

Middle and high school science teachers (biology, environmental science, AP science) who need local data‑collection projects that fit standards.

After‑school science clubs and eco‑clubs looking for recurring spring projects.

Neighborhood associations and HOA environment/beautification committees that manage ponds, stormwater basins, and greenbelts.

Anyone worried about water quality, pesticides, or flooding who see frogs as indicators of land and water health.

Start by listening on Tuesday! Find an interesting new world and one you can help make a big difference.