Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team

Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team

Abbreviation	CAVPT
Formation	1990
Director	Rick Roth
Website	https://www.capeannvernalpondteam.org

The Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team (CAVPT) is a nonprofit organization operating around Cape Ann, Massachusetts, and devoted to identifying and preserving vernal ponds, as well as educating the public about reptiles and amphibians.

The organization was founded in 1990 and became a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in 2006. ^[1]

Its educational work involves putting on events in which attendees can view and interact with different species of snakes. These shows are put on in various schools, libraries, and other public places. ^{[2] [3]}

The team also leads nighttime trips to vernal ponds, educating the public about their ecology and conservation. ^{[2] [4]}

CAVPT has identified and certified over 300 vernal pools on Cape Ann, ^[5] a process intended to give the ponds protection from development through the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, as the ponds receive little governmental protection unless certified. ^[6]

References

1. "I Like the "Creepy Crawlies"". Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce. October 24, 2024. Retrieved June 21, 2025.
2. Cataldo, Nicola (April 20, 2014). "Two Rick Roths walk into a bar..." Boston Globe . Retrieved June 21, 2025.
3. "WCLT hosts "Snakes of New England and the World" March 31". Community Advocate . Mar 18, 2012. Retrieved June 21, 2025.
4. Martel, Sara (January 2011). Snake Charmer. Sierra Club Magazine. Retrieved July 9th, 2025.
5. Waters, Wendall (May 9, 2022). "Vernal pools are fun to explore. They're also critical wildlife habitat". Wicked Local . Retrieved June 21, 2025.
6. Taormina, Nick (November 4, 2008). "The Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team: Defending Vernal Ponds and Inspiring Community Action" (PDF). Massachusetts Wildlife. pp. 29–33. Retrieved July 11, 2025.