Stikine Amphibian Research

In order to enhance our understanding of Stikine amphibian populations, we are seeking your donations to fund a systematic inventory of these species in June of 2013. Why should we care about amphibians in Alaska? They are among the first species to be impacted by changes in their environment and they serve as indicators of biological health, offering early warning signs for problems that may impact other species on which people depend, such as salmon. Amphibians also consume large quantities of insects (who doesnt want to promote mosquito control?) and they are an important food source for birds, fish and small mammals in many areas.

The proposed inventory on the Stikine will enhance datasets that have been collected over the past several years. The Stikine River is an excellent location for this research because it is known as a "biological hotspot" and is home to all six of Alaska's native amphibian species.

Relatively little money is needed to get this project off the ground. Our $1000 goal includes:

$300 to fuel the boat

$250 for a volunteer stipend

$450 for supplies (nets, waders, minnow traps, etc), lodging costs, etc

The big ticket items for this inventory have already been secured. Plane tickets have been purchased using airline miles and jetboat use has been donated by the project volunteer.

Your donations to make this project possible are very much appreciated!