Students will use dip nets, pans and magnifiers to observe aquatic insects, amphibians and other wildlife that call vernal pools or permanent ponds home. Indoors, students will learn the life cycles of aquatic insects and amphibians through activities and pictures. Then, they’ll explore pre-dipped pond water and use microscopes and magnifiers to observe the macroinvertebrates’ adaptations and characteristics. Outside, students will hike to a pond and use nets and other equipment to collect, observe and identify aquatic macroinvertebrates using simple keys. The vernal pools are most active in early spring, later pond programs will focus on the permanent pond.

Learn more about the Stony Creek Nature Center.