VERMONT
VERNAL POOL PROTECTION MEASURES

The Vermont Wetland Rules (Water Resources Board 1990) include no direct reference to vernal pools. However, vernal pools can be considered as wetlands significant for wildlife through Rule 5.4, Function: Wildlife and migratory bird habitat. According to Rule 5.4 c., the following should be considered when designating a wetland as significant for wildlife habitat: 
     
                 (a) The wetland provides habitat that supports the reproduction of uncommon Vermont amphibian species
                      including: Jefferson salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum), blue-spotted salamander (Ambystoma laterale),
                      yellow-spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), and others found in Vermont of similar significance.

                 (b) The wetland supports or, based on its habitat is likely to support breeding populations of any uncommon
                       Vermont amphibian species including: Mountain dusky salamander (Desmognathus ochrophaeus)
                       four-toed salamander (Hemidactylium scutatum) Fowler's (Woodhouse's) toad (Bufo fowleri) and others
                       found in Vermont of similar significance.

If a wetland is considered significant for wildlife, then it is determined to be a class 1 or Class 2 wetland and it is regulated by the Wetland Rules.

(Murphy and Golet 1998)