SYMPOSIUM PRESENTER TITLE: Amphibians and reptiles in the Lower Wisconsin Riverway ABSTRACT: The Lower Wisconsin Riverway is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. In addition to being an important historical, cultural, recreational, and aesthetic resource, it is rich in biodiversity. It supports the highest diversity of amphibians and reptiles in Wisconsin, including most of Wisconsin’s rarest species. This species richness is a result of its history as a glacial refuge during the Pleistocene epoch and the diversity of habitats offered. Its role as a climate refuge continues today, as it supports species from more southern climates reaching the northern limit of their range in Wisconsin (i.e., Timber Rattlesnake). Many of these species, especially reptiles adapted to warmer winters, may benefit from the warming climate. However, other challenges such as invasive species, new diseases, changing hydrologic dynamics, chemical contamination, altered flood regimes, and rapid habitat change pose continuing threats. Habitat connectivity and barriers to movement are challenges to many amphibians and reptiles as well. I will review the amphibian and reptile species richness in the Riverway and the environmental challenges and opportunities these creatures face in the region. BIO: Gary has over 45 years experience in wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and monitoring. His research focuses mainly on bioacoustics and wildlife conservation in the western Great Lakes region. His most recent book is a Field Guide to Amphibian Eggs and Larvae of the Western Great Lakes.