Training

See also: California Red Legged Frog, Habitat Restoration

Workshop Objectives:             

This was an opportunity to receive training in California Red-legged Frog (CRF) species identification, field sampling techniques, and the habitat requirements. Workshop information was designed to be useful for evaluating CRF habitats, assessing potential impacts from projects within the range of CRF, conservation planning, and for educational outreach to agricultural producers and others who are considering projects that may impact CRLF. The instructors covered only minor regulatory and permitting information in this workshop.

Workshop Details:

Workshop registration included a classroom session and afternoon field component on May 5.  Registration also included attendance a night-time field training session.  Night training was conducted from 8:00 pm until midnight.  Field sessions were at Elkhorn Ranch and Native Plant Nursery: many thanks to the Ranch managers for welcoming us onto their land!

Workshop Format

May 5 Classroom Session (8:00am-2:00pm) - An overview of the biology and management of the California red-legged frog. Held at the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.

May 5 Afternoon Session (2:00pm-6:00pm) - Field trip to Elkhorn Ranch: Habitat requirements and assessment, pond designs, equipment demonstrations, tadpole identification and survey techniques. Personal vehicles required to travel to field site and liability waiver required.

Night Field Practicum (8:00pm-midnight) - Trish and Greg demonstrated USFWS survey methodology, as well as catching, handling, sexing and measuring adult frogs. Students then practiced these methods at various ponds.

Please note: this workshop was not intended to satisfy all requirements to obtain CRF permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Please contact that agency for further information if obtaining a Federal permit is your goal.