Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNatureNews

Volunteer for the Rouge Frog and Toad Survey in Livonia

Volunteers will observe frogs and toads to monitor wetland health

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News Summary

Residents of Livonia are invited to volunteer for the annual Rouge Frog and Toad Survey conducted by the Friends of the Rouge Nonprofit. This initiative, running since 1998, aims to gauge the health of wetlands through frog and toad populations, which serve as indicators of environmental stability. Volunteers will receive training and will commit to observing specific areas during the active months of March to July. The first training session is set for February 22 at the Livonia Civic Center Library.

Attention, Residents of Livonia: Your Help is Needed for the Rouge Frog and Toad Survey!

If you’re looking for a way to get involved with your local environment, the Friends of the Rouge Nonprofit has got an exciting opportunity for you! They are actively searching for enthusiastic volunteers to take part in their important annual frog and toad survey, known as the Rouge Frog and Toad Survey. This survey has been unhindered since 1998, and it’s a fun and rewarding project aimed at understanding the health of our wetland ecosystems.

Why Frogs and Toads?

Now, you might be wondering: why frolicking frogs and timid toads? Frogs and toads play an essential role in our environment—they’re like the early warning system for the health of wetlands. They are particularly sensitive to pollution and habitat loss, so their presence (or absence) can give us a clear picture of how our wetlands are doing. If they are thriving, it suggests our wetland health is in good shape, but if their numbers are dwindling, it could indicate bigger problems lurking beneath the surface.

What Does Volunteering Involve?

As a volunteer, you’ll be trained in identifying the unique calls of eight different frog and toad species found in the Rouge River watershed. It’s a fantastic chance to learn something new while being one with nature! You will be assigned specific survey blocks within this watershed and will need to visit these blocks multiple times each month. Hey, no big deal—it just means more time outdoors!

The best time for these visits is during those damp, warm nights from March through July when our little amphibian friends are the most active. Picture yourself wandering through beautiful wetland areas while listening to the enchanting calls of frogs and toads. Sounds like a dream, right?

Get Ready for Training!

For those ready to jump in, there’s a mandatory training session coming up soon—mark your calendars for Saturday, February 22, from 10 a.m. to noon. It’ll be held at the Livonia Civic Center Library, located at 32777 Five Mile Road in Livonia. Be sure to pre-register if you want to dive into this experience!

Why It’s More Important Now Than Ever

The statistics are alarming: Michigan has lost approximately 60% of its original wetlands. If we look at our local areas, Oakland County is at 55%, Washtenaw County at 53%, and Wayne County has experienced a staggering 90% loss. This is a strong reminder that our wetlands need all the help they can get.

The survey comes at a crucial time when the healthiest wetlands and the highest diversity of amphibians are found in the less developed headwaters of the Rouge River. In contrast, urbanized areas show a decline in amphibian species. By volunteering, you’ll not only contribute valuable data but also engage meaningfully with the environment and wildlife right in your backyard.

Join the Cause!

This isn’t just a science project; it’s a wonderful opportunity for community members to come together and foster a strong connection with wildlife. Let’s make a difference for our frogs and toads, and in turn, our precious wetland ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned nature lover or just looking to make some new friends and learn something new, the Rouge Frog and Toad Survey welcomes you with open arms!

So what are you waiting for? Slip on those boots, grab a notebook, and prepare to hop on board for this amphibian adventure. Together, we can make waves for a healthier Rouge River!