FrogWatch USA™ volunteer training workshop

The Auburn University Museum of Natural History Chapter of FrogWatch USA™ is offering volunteer training workshops

The Auburn University Museum of Natural History is seeking volunteers for its chapter of FrogWatch USA, an amphibian monitoring program sponsored by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Alabama is home to a high diversity of frogs and toads with more than 30 species in the state. However, some amphibian populations are declining. FrogWatch USA gives the public an opportunity to be directly involved in gathering information that can lead to practical and workable ways to conserve amphibian populations. The program relies on volunteers to collect and report information about wetlands and frog and toad populations in their area. YOU can help our frogs! All volunteers must participate in a training session with a commitment to monitor a site for at least three minutes, several nights a month throughout the FrogWatch season, which runs from March through August. Volunteers do not have to be frog or toad experts to participate. An interest in frogs and toads, a willingness to learn their calls, and a few minutes a week is all that is required. The program is free and open to individuals or families interested in learning more about local frogs, toads and wetlands. Participating children must be at least 10 years old and all volunteers under 16 must participate with a parent or guardian. The first volunteer training workshop will be held at the Biodiversity Learning Center on Saturday, April 11, from 2 to 6 p.m., with an optional field excursion to follow. Additional training workshops will be scheduled and include one in Andalusia on April 26. For more information or to register, visit the website at http://aumnh.org/frogwatchor contact David Laurencio at FrogWatch@auburn.eduor 334-844-9127. More information about FrogWatch USA is also available at http://aza.org/frogwatch.