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Vernal Pools and other Seasonal Pools

Open-canopy seasonal pool, western Virginia. Photo by Lesley Brown.

Open-canopy seasonal pool, western Virginia. Photo by Lesley Brown.

What are seasonal pools?

Seasonal pools, also known as vernal pools, temporary ponds, woodland pools, ephemeral wetlands, among other names, are isolated aquatic habitats that undergo periodic drying. Melting snow, run-off, and spring rains fill these small depressions to their maximum water levels in early spring ("vernal" is derived from the Latin word for spring). These same pools may completely dry out by late summer.

Why are these pools important?

The isolation of seasonal pools (lack of permanent surface water connections to other water bodies) and their periodic drying keep them free from populations of predatory fish. This reduced-predator environment is essential for the breeding success of many amphibian species in mid-Atlantic and northeastern United States, such as spotted salamanders and wood frogs, and the survival of unique invertebrates, such as fairy shrimp.

Seasonal pools support local and regional biodiversity by serving as important breeding, nursery, and feeding grounds for wildlife, including amphibians, invertebrates, turtles, snakes, mammals, and birds.

Note: EPA will be publishing a guide to vernal pools and other seasonal pools of the mid-Atlantic region. A link to the guide will be provided as it becomes available.

Woodland vernal pool, western Virginia. Photo by Lesley Brown.

Woodland vernal pool, western Virginia. Photo by Lesley Brown.

Find out more about vernal pools:Exit EPA Disclaimer

Biological Indicators | Aquatic Biodiversity | Statistical Primer

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