MARQUETTE, MI— The Superior Watershed Partnership and Land Conservancy are set to install tunnels for the Blue Spotted Salamander at Presque Isle Park after having received a grant to support the initiative.
The DNR Wildlife Habitat grant totals more than $27,000 and will be utilized to create tunnels designed to protect the small amphibians in their annual spring-time migration from the Island’s woods to vernal pools.
Historically, the City of Marquette closes off the road around the park to protect the salamanders, however foot traffic has become a problematic. Blue Spotted Salamanders are relatively small measuring 4-6 inches on average, are slow-moving, and can be difficult to see—particularly at night, when they migrate.
The SWP is partnering with the Marquette Parks and Recreation Department on the installation of the migration tunnels and their final locations.
— with files from wnmufm.org
