What: This survey fosters awareness of the species and habitat biodiversity of the reservation, with a focus on its pollinators, and more generally arthropods. The objectives of this series are: (1) Learn about the Fresh Pond’s habitats, and its wildlife, and help protect the reservation; (2) Observe & record information using an ethical framework and obtain science-usable information. Biodiversity species records are uploaded to a dedicated iNaturalist project (EwA iNaturalist project logo on the left). We also upload arthropod counts to Caterpillars Count. We have 3 other survey sites in the region, and rapidly we will be able to compare populations between sites. We also work together at developing a virtual guide to the insects and wildlife of the reservation. [More about EwA Citizen Science →]
Why: Important reasons for surveying arthropods include the need for understanding arthropod distributions in urban settings, as well as to investigate how climate change affects both the timing of life-history events and the spatial distributions of many species, including plants and pollinators.
When: As our weekly surveys depend on the weather (temperature and wind speed), our event schedule is usually announced a few days before a survey. Check regularly -or subscribe- to our EwA calendar to know when we go in the field. 💬 Join our EwA forum to get notified about our field findings, as well as to learn about cool science and important news.
Each survey is a register-and-commit event with a restricted number of participants! By having small size events we can keep one another healthy and have a quality experience while not overwhelming the habitats that we are protecting.
☆ This program is a collaboration with the Cambridge Water Department and thanks to the invaluable help of Ranger Timothy Puopolo who supervises the Reservoir.
About the Fresh Pond Reservation. It is owned and managed by the City of Cambridge. Fresh Pond is a sanctuary of upland forests, meadows, wetlands, and wildlife on the western boundary of densely populated Cambridge. The reservation consists of 162 acres of open space surrounding and protecting the 155-acre Fresh Pond Reservoir and contains a 2.25-mile loop trail. Fresh Pond Reservoir is a vital part of the drinking water supply system for the City of Cambridge. Check it out!
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