Welcome to the Pennsylvania Seasonal Pools Registry

Seasonal pools, often called vernal pools, are a unique type of wetland habitat. They are typically small, shallow, ephemeral waterbodies, and unlike a pond or a lake, they have no permanent inlet or outlet.  They are filled each spring by rain and snow melt, then dry up for a period of time during the summer. These qualities of seasonal pools distinguish them from other wetlands, and they support several species of animals that require these temporary wetland habitats for survival.

The Pennsylvania Seasonal Pools Registry is a citizen-based program to document locations of seasonal pools.  We are relying on volunteer participants to submit information about where seasonal pools are located and what animals are using the pools.  The registry is an important step toward understanding Pennsylvania's ephemeral wetland habitats. The information will be available to researchers who study seasonal pools in the state, and to landowners and agencies who manage these often-overlooked wetlands. Anyone who is interested in seasonal pools is welcome to get involved.  

This website provides information on how to find seasonal pools, identify the animals you may encounter, and register the pool once you have confirmed that it is seasonal rather than permanent in nature. Click on "Register a Pool" to begin.

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