Mattapoisett has a large number of vernal pools, vital breeding habitat for resident amphibians and invertebrates such as wood frogs, spotted and blue-spotted salamanders, and fairy shrimp. After a particularly harsh winter the Mattapoisett Land Trust would like to invite members and the general public to visit one of its larger vernal pools to discover how life has returned.

On Saturday, April 25 at 2 p.m., a group will visit the certified Grace Pond in the land trust’s Old Aucoot District. The state forms for certifying vernal pools will be provided to all visitors so that they can learn how to properly complete the forms part of the Commonwealth's Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. This will be a good opportunity for anyone to learn about the wetlands of Mattapoisett and about their biodiversity.

The vernal pool visit is free and open to all, including residents of other towns. Meet at the parking area on the Grace Preserve at the southern end of Bowman Road at 2 p.m. For more information, call 508-758-7849 or email info@mattlandtrust.org. Rubber boots are recommended, but the path leading to the pool allows relatively easy access.