Residents participate in citizens science project

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Over 250 residents participated in a citizens science project.

The Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District conducted a survey on reptiles and amphibians in the county.

Nicole Hafer, Education and Wildlife Specialist at the Muskingum Soil and Water Conservation District, said the survey was completed with help of the community.

“We asked people to photograph reptiles and amphibians that they found, and to send those photos with documentation as to where they found the animals to get an idea of different species and where their distribution is in the county,” said Hafer.

Hafer said the last time the county did a large reptile and amphibian survey was around 1976.

This year’s survey found 9 species of animals that had not been prior identified in the county. There were 305 individual animals reported of 39 different species.

Hafer said part of the project was to educate people on how important the animals are.

“Reptiles and amphibians are indicators of good environmental quality, so when you have good diversity of these animals it kind of lets you know that you have good overall diversity and health in your environment,” said Hafer.

For more information about the survey or to contribute photos visit their website at www.muskingumswcd.com.