One of the best ways to protect a vernal pool is to certify it. This is a wonderful project for students and teachers to take on, helping to protect vernal pools in their community. Certification requires documentation that a pool is truly a vernal pool. This is done by collecting data, through pictures and submitting maps to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. Once certified the pools are then protected under the Wetlands Protection Act. Although this protects a small area around the pool, this does not stop development or protect the uplands where the species live, but it can help guide sensible development.
In addition many communities are developing bylaws that protect vernal pools and the areas around them where these species begin their lives. In Massachusetts more than 2500 pools have been certified, most of them in the last five years as public awareness has increased. People are not just concerned with stopping development, but are fascinated by the lives of the life that is supported in these pools.