Salamanders can indicate the health of upland, wooded environments, as well as the health of areas surrounding waterways.
Some of the waterways in Prince William County include streams, which were restored primarily to keep sediment out of the Chesapeake Bay, but it is uncertain if a restored stream makes a good habitat for salamanders and other amphibians.
“Nobody really knows if stream restoration improves a biological habitat,” said Prince William County Department of Public Works Environmental Engineer Tom Dombrowski. “We know it stops nitrogen and phosphorous and stuff like that from going into the watershed. The reason amphibians are so important is because their skin is so sensitive that everything in the environment soaks into their skin and they’re an indicator of the quality of the environment they’re living in.”
To try and determine if a restored stream will attract and support salamanders, volunteers with the Virginia Cooperative Extension-Prince William (VCE) recently worked with Dombrowski and the Public Works Department to place salamander traps near the recently restored Dewey’s Run Creek near Dumfries.
Salamanders use vernal pools, which are pools that form in the spring but dry out by late spring or early summer, for breeding. The traps, made of silt fencing, block the way to the vernal pools, except for gaps in the fencing here and there. Cups buried at ground level in the gaps along the fence line create “pitfall” traps that the salamanders fall into as they try to get to the vernal pool. A wet sponge in the bottom of the cup keeps the salamander hydrated until volunteers retrieve and study them.
The purpose of the traps is to determine several things.
“This is a big effort,” said VCE Natural Resource Specialist-Master Gardener Coordinator Nancy Berlin of building the traps. “We’re just trying to establish presence, absence and diversity.”
Concern for the environment and curiosity brought most of the volunteers out to help build the traps.
“There was a lot of effort put into restoring the stream, and we need to understand how it’s affecting everything. This is monitoring to understand that the restoration is working,” said Tim Chenault, volunteer and retired contract attorney with the government.
Recent Stories
Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
