FrogWatch Citizen Science Program
You can contribute to amphibian conservation in your community! DOEE FrogWatch volunteers collect and submit data on calling frogs and toads at streams, ponds, and wetlands in and around the District. These important data are compiled in a national database where professionals and members of the general public alike can explore trends in frog and toad breeding across space and time.
Frogs and toads are amphibians that live in and around aquatic habitats. They are sensitive to pollution and their presence can act as an indicator of a healthy environment. Amphibians also have important roles in the food web, controlling insect populations and providing food for other animals. As a member of the DOEE FrogWatch Chapter, you will be a citizen scientist who helps gather supplemental information that can support important efforts like the District of Columbia Wildlife Action Plan, Habitat Restoration Program, Wetland Mapping and Registry Project, DC Environmental Literacy Plan, and aquatic resources education in the District.
New Volunteers
Starting in 2022, training for new volunteers will be completed 100% online. AZA’s is offering a free E-Learning course which will certify you to become a FrogWatch USA volunteer. Once certified, volunteers may conduct their own surveys or register to attend the monthly FrogWatch Walks. Data collected on surveys should be uploaded to the national online database.
On February 17th at 5 pm there will be a Zoom orientation for FrogWatch participants. Please register beforehand to get the orientation link information. We will be reviewing logistics of the program and allow time for participants to ask questions. Please complete the online training before attending the orientation. This orientation is not required for program participation.
FrogWatch Walks
In 2022, DOEE & Living Classrooms are teaming up to provide volunteers with guided FrogWatch walks on Kingman Island. The walks will take place 30 min after sunset and will last for two hours. There will be one walk every month on the third Thursday between March and August. pre- registration is required and registration links will be put out one month before each walk.
The dates are as follows:
March 17
April 21
May 19
June 16
July 14
Aug 18
Check out this video from our friends at The Nature Conservancy for an inside look at one of our 2021 Frog Watch Walks.