Wetland Field Experience (NSF-REU)

South Dakota is part of the prairie pothole region, which means they have wetlands at the low-points of elevation. Our work examined animals, specifically northern leopard frogs, american toads, tiger salamanders, and various turtles, in those wetlands. Our sites were two hours away from our home base at USD, University of South Dakota, so when we went out to the field it was a commitment. To catch animals we either used nets or friendly traps. I am a darn good frog catcher now.

Weather was not always kind to us, we could go from stifling heat to thunderstorm in the same day. We wore chest waders, which locked in heat and moisture. The position of field biologist really means that you're a pack mule. We would haul the traps, animals, and other equipment to and from each wetland across hilly terrain for up to a mile and a half one way. We would often have 5 sites or more to do in one day, including the drive. But I wouldn't change a thing, the team was great and I truly understand what it means to do graduate research. The commitment isn't just time, you have to give everything you have to the research and not give up on anything.

#fieldwork #wetlands #researchexperienceforunderguates