Frog Fest outdoor science event to feature exhibits, wildlife experts
CEDARVILLE — Residents in Michigan's Upper Peninsula will come together Saturday, July 9, for the 21st Annual Frog Fest.
Frog Fest is an outdoor science event intended to celebrate nature, with learning opportunities for all ages. Attendees can view exhibits and speak to scientists about wildlife and the natural world.
Frog Fest began in 2001, when the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council sought a way to inform the community about nature conservation projects happening in the area. Because frogs are common to that area, especially around the shore, the name stuck.
Frogs also play an important part in testing clean waters. According to the Watershed Council, the presence of frogs can indicate a healthy water supply, and the absence of frogs can indicate dirty or contaminated water.
"Frogs are an indicator of wellness of the water," said volunteer organizer Valerie Wolters. "So, if there's a place that would normally be inhabited by frogs and you don't hear any frogs, there's something wrong."
Mike and Kim Gay regularly bring their expertise to the festival, showcasing frogs and other small creatures and teaching people about local wildlife.
"(Mike and Kim) are such knowledgeable people about the amphibians and reptiles in the area," Wolters said. "They collect local critters themselves and display them and talk with people who are at Frog Fest.
"At the end of the fest, within a day, they'll have returned all of those creatures back to their natural habitat. They're very respectful people and fun to talk with."
There will be visiting experts from programs across Michigan, including the LSSU Center for Freshwater Research.
"What I love about being part of Frog Fest is the fact that the people who represent the different studies and research really are so happy to talk with people," Wolters said. "There's a nice exchange of information and a realization that every one of us has a responsibility to this beautiful place."
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Other activities include a guided walk through the woods and a series of games for children. The event is free to attend for all visitors, but there will be opportunities to give donations. All proceeds support the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council.
Frog Fest begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 9, at Heritage Park in Cedarville. For more information, visit lescheneauxwatershed.org.
— Contact Brendan Wiesner at bwiesner@sooeveningnews.com.
This article originally appeared on The Sault News: Frog Fest outdoor science event to feature exhibits, wildlife experts
