The boreal toad was once common in Utah’s mountains, but it has experienced serious population declines during the past two decades. Primary threats include:
The spread of a deadly fungus called chytrid
Water management
Urbanization
Pollutants
Development
Drought/climate change
For these reasons, the boreal toad is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Utah's Wildlife Action Plan and is listed as “sensitive” by the U.S. Forest Service.
The outcome of these threats on the species is uncertain, as we have limited data on boreal toads and their habitat. The Amphibian and Aquatic Habitat Assessments project is a partnership Sageland Collaborative built with Utah's Hogle Zoo, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Utah Geological Survey, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Community scientists will collect information about frog and toad eggs, tadpoles, and adults, along with collecting water quality samples. Data are used to help management agencies better understand and conserve amphibian habitats.
Volunteer Resources
A boreal toad in aquatic habitat. Photo by Sarah Woodbury
2024 Boreal Toad Training Videos
Site Sign Up! Sign ups are open for June day trips and all Independent Monitoring sites! Sign ups for July-August day trips and Camping trips will open on June 1st.
Boreal Toad Surveyor Packet (en Español)
Optional toad backpacks can be checked out from the Hogle Zoo main entrance or the Sageland Collaborative office in downtown SLC. These contain all of the materials you’ll need to complete an independent boreal toad survey!
Contact us with any questions about the project, including site accessibility
Conserve Utah’s boreal toads by donating today.
Field Season: May – September
Volunteer Commitment Level: Flexible and varies, depending on interest. Can visit independent sites as desired or accompany biologists on day-long or multi-day trips.
Training: Yes - our 2024 Training Event will be held on May 4, 2024 at the George S. and Dolores Dore Wildlife Eccles Education Center in Farmington, UT. Training videos will be made available afterwards to those unable to join in person.
Requirements: Field work, hiking, vehicle
Communications: We will be sending out emails once a month about the project during the season. Sign up to receive these emails.
If you have any questions in the meantime, want to know about site accessibility, or otherwise need further support, please contact us.
You can also check out recent project updates below.
Project Updates:
Our Partners:
Video introduction directed by Sarah Woodbury and filmed/edited by Josh Carter.