PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release – June 7, 2023
Contact:
Rachel McKimmy, ECO AmeriCorps Clean Water Communications Specialist
Department of Environmental Conservation
802-522-4042, Rachel.Mckimmy@partner.vermont.gov
Upcoming Virtual Presentation: Mudpuppies and the Importance of Clean Water Conservation
Montpelier, Vt. – Discover mudpuppies with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Fish & Wildlife Department (FWD) at the upcoming Clean Water Conversation virtual event from 12:00 – 1:00 pm on June 8, 2023.
“Mudpuppies are large aquatic salamanders and a high priority Species of Greatest Conservation need in Vermont,” said DEC Commissioner John Beling. “To address population concerns, our department has partnered with FWD to apply federal funds in a conservation project from the Lake Champlain Basin Program and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.”
Native populations of mudpuppies can be found in Lake Champlain and its tributaries. The Lamoille River has one of Vermont’s largest mudpuppy populations. FWD is working to establish a new sub-population of mudpuppies through relocation. Staff mark relocated mudpuppies and fit some with radio transmitters to track their survival and movement.
The event speaker, Mark Ferguson, is a wildlife biologist with FWD. His work focuses on the conservation of rare amphibians, fishes, and invertebrates.
In this presentation, Mark will cover mudpuppy natural history, ecosystem roles, how mudpuppies are affected by water quality and sedimentation, and an overview of the conservation project.
This event is part of a monthly virtual presentation series called Clean Water Conversations. The series highlights efforts to protect and restore water quality in Vermont.
Register for this free online event and view the schedule of talks. Presentations are recorded and uploaded to the DEC Clean Water Program’s YouTube Channel. To request accommodations to participate in the presentation, please email ANR.CleanWaterVT@vermont.gov.
If Rachel McKimmy is not available, contact Lauren Sopher at 802-490-6134 or Lauren.Sopher@vermont.gov.
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The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.