Discover hidden creatures at Powhatan State Park’s vernal pool event

POWHATAN COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Powhatan State Park is hosting a vernal pool discovery event on Friday, where attendees can learn about the creatures that inhabit the temporary seasonal wetlands.

Vernal pools are small bodies of water that form from precipitation that falls in autumn and winter. They serve as temporary freshwater habitats that are integral for a variety of wildlife.

On Friday, April 4, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Powhatan State Park, located at 4616 Powhatan State Park Road, is hosting a vernal pool discovery event where attendees will see what hidden secrets can be found during these temporary seasonal wetlands.

Participants at the event will discover why these pools are special and how they are vital for the survival of different wildlife populations.

Spotted salamander eggs in a vernal pool (Photo: Department of Conservation and Recreation)

The program will feature a short walk through the state park to one of the pools, and a staff member will use a net to scoop debris. Attendees will be at a nearby table where they can look through the debris for various small creatures.

Since participants at this event will be walking off-trail, it is advised to wear closed-toed shoes, long socks and long pants in order to protect your feet and legs.

To protect the habitat and ensure minimal damage, participants will not be allowed in the water and must stay in the designated program area.

Attendees are not allowed to walk off-trail to see the vernal pools unless they are accompanied by a staff member.

To attend this event, registration is required, and there will be a standard parking or admission fee.

For more information and to register for this event, visit the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's website here.