The spring 2009 field trip will be held at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, near Ironton in Iron and Reynolds Counties, Missouri on Sat 9 May 2009. The group campground has been reserved for those who wish to spend the weekend at the park. Survey activities will be conducted throughout the entire weekend with the bulk of work occuring on Saturday. Check this site, the upcoming newsletter, and your e-mail inbox for more details!
The Missouri Herpetological Association will hold the 2009 Spring Field Trip Saturday, May 9. This year we will conduct a herpetofaunal survey of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park SW of Ironton in Iron and Reynolds Counties. The organized count will be conducted between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. We will assemble at Group Campsite B (see map). The event is open to the public and free of charge.
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park covers approximately 7500 acres The park is located within the St. Francois Mountains and includes the highest point (Taum Sauk Mountain) at 1772 ft. and Mina Sauk Falls, the highest waterfall in the state. The park consists primarily of Ozark forestland with rhyolite glades, ponds, and ephemeral and permanent streams. We will conduct a survey of both terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
We have reserved group campsite B at the park on Friday and Saturday nights where primitive camping is available for a nominal charge of $1/person/night. Motel accommodations are available in nearby Ironton. Overnight campers should bring food and drink for their own meals. Additional information, including maps and directions, is available on the park home page http://www.mostateparks.com/stfrancois.htm.
Trained herpetologists will lead groups of participants, verify identification and locality of the amphibians and reptiles collected, obtain photo documentation and maintain species counts. After verification most animals will be released at the site of capture. Individuals with valid Missouri collecting permits may retain selected specimens for research or display at accredited institutions.
Individuals of all ages are welcome to participate; however, adults should accompany young children. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and are advised to wear long pants and stout boots while in the field. Leather gloves, hat, sunscreen, insect repellant, and water are also recommended. Participants with digital cameras and GPS units are encouraged to bring them to help document the survey. Individuals should provide their own lunches.
Results of the field trip will be posted on the MHA website http://www.moherp.org/ and published in the 2009 MHA newsletter.
Richard Daniel