Amphibians and reptiles (collectively regionally referred to as herpetofauna) are recognized as key indicators of environmental health. Effective conservation of these species requires a thorough understanding of key threats and ways we can reduce these threats.

This webinar will provide an introduction to Michigan’s rare and imperiled species of herpetofauna and focus on several Best Management Techniques (BMPs) for minimizing impacts and restoring and improving habitat for Michigan’s herpetofauna. An introduction into the role of the Michigan Herpetological Atlas plays in conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles and how to contribute.

The webinar will also discuss the importance to Michigan’s Herpetofauna Habitat Assessment Tool (Herp HAT), as well as some recent modifications to this assessment tool for protecting landscapes and species.

This webinar is sponsored by EGLE with support from MARC.

Online via ZOOM (Registrants will receive a Zoom link before the webinar)
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Guest Speaker
David A. Mifsud
Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC
Senior Herpetologist and Owner
David A. Mifsud is the senior herpetologist and owner of Herpetological Resource and Management, a conservation company dedicated to the protection and stewardship of amphibians and reptiles. He holds multiple certifications including Professional Wetland Scientist by the Society of Wetland Scientists, Professional Ecologist by the Ecological Society of America, and Professional Wildlife Biologist through The Wildlife Society. He has worked for over 25 years in wildlife biology, wetland ecology, and habitat conservation and management, with an emphasis on herpetofauna. He has conducted research, assessments, and habitat restoration targeting amphibians and reptiles across Michigan. He has written or co-authored several publications and technical reports on Michigan herpetofauna. David is Co-chair of the State of Michigan Amphibian and Reptile Technical Advisory board. He also coordinates the Michigan Herpetological Atlas project. He has conducted numerous training workshops focused on the identification, conservation and best management of amphibians and reptiles in Michigan. He is recognized as a global expert by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group with a focus on Great Lakes and African chelonians. Mifsud is the author of the Amphibian & Reptile Best Management Practices for Michigan and co-author of the Amphibians and Reptiles of the Great Lakes Region Revised Edition. He is also the founder and President of the Michigan Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy.
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