On June 10^th, 2006 the Walden Woods Project led a Vernal Pool outing in Walden Woods. Despite the rain, 18 people showed up for the event, led by vernal pool experts Leo Kenney, Mark Maguire, and Matt Burne (the Land Conservation Coordinator at the Walden Woods Project).

The group first visited a vernal pool close to Thoreau’s cabin site. All three leaders got into the water and started collecting vernal pool creatures using their nets.  The majority of the catch consisted of salamander larvae, frog tadpoles, beetles, among a few other organisms.  Participants were able to inspect the creatures that were caught close-up, while the leaders provided identifications and discussed the natural history of the habitat, landscape, and organisms.

The group then went to the Wyman Meadow, a very different type of vernal pool.  Due to the heavy rains, the pool was almost connected to Walden Pond, which, though not unheard of, happens only occasionally.  A red-spotted newt, American toad and green frog tadpoles, and many dragonfly and damselfly larvae were found.  The natural history interpretation for these pools included a comparison between vernal pools and lakes such as Walden Pond.  The program was thoroughly enjoyed by both adults and kids in attendance.