Table of Contents
       Problem Definition/Abstract

Introduction
       What is a Vernal Pool?
        Why are Vernal Pools important?

Historical Developments in Vernal Pool Protection 
        Connecticut's Changing Landscape
        An Awakening Awareness
        Current Regulations
        Vernal Pools and Their Role in Delimiting Development
        Identifying Ephemeral Resources
        Monitoring Fleeting Resources

Participants and their Perspectives
         National Government
         State Government 
         Local Government 
         Legal/Policy/Land-Use Organizations 
         Environmental Organizations 
         Environmental /Development Consultants 
         Development Groups 
         Scientists 
         Educators/Media

Limitations and Opportunities for Vernal Pool Protection 
         A Regulatory Safety Net or Loop Hole? 
         Determining Buffers and Boundaries 
         169 Towns, 169 Interpretations 
         Ephemeral Funds 
         Politics and Protection 
         Regulatory Resistance 
         Ignorance is Bliss 
         Elusive and Ephemeral 
         Private Property Issues 

Possible Strategies for Improving Vernal Pool Protection 
         No Action Alternative:  Accept the Status Quo 
         Changing State Regulation 
         Increasing Education and Outreach 
         Increasing Ecological Research 
         Increasing Protection without Changing State Regulations 
         Increasing Identification and Verification of Vernal Pools 
         Incorporating Vernal Pools into Zoning and Land-Use Planning 

Recommendations 

To order a copy of these proceedings please contact the CCWS office, or CLICK HERE for a .pdf file containing the entire report.

CCWS Home

Vernal Pools

Resources & Publications