Counting frogs?Someone has to do it, and the DNR is looking for volunteers to help this spring and summer with a frog and toad calling survey, part of a nationwide monitoring program.Help is needed statewide, but especially in southwestern Minnesota. "Without the dedication of generous volunteers, this project would not be possible," explained Rich Baker of the DNR nongame wildlife program. "Many frog and toad species are indicators of habitat quality and provide valuable information on the condition of Minnesota's wetlands." Volunteers receive a kit that includes a CD of calls by Minnesota's frog and toad species, a poster of Minnesota's frogs and toads, a map of a predefined route in an area of their choice. Route availability and past survey results are on the DNR website at www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteering/frogtoad_survey/index.html, as are directions on how to run the route. A vehicle is required. Participants will conduct nighttime "listening surveys" on three evenings between April and July. These 10-stop routes are run after dark, in good weather, and in each of the following time periods to capture seasonal variation in calling frog species: April 15 - 30, May 20 - June 5, and June 25 - July 10. Participants will record their information on datasheets provided in their volunteer kit. If you're interested, choose a route and then call Heidi Cyr, survey volunteer coordinator, at 651-259-5107, or send an email to heidi.cyr@state.mn.us.
