Dear fellow herp enthusiasts and members of herp societies,



The Lancaster Herpetological Society (http://www.lancasterherp.org/) of Lancaster, PA, is currently looking for a new meeting venue. Though the reasons are many, poorly understood, and constantly changing, our current hosting organization will only permit us to use their facilities until our October meeting. By that time we will need a new hosting organization. This has not been as straightforward as we would have thought, and so we are looking for some insights from your experience. Some of you have an existing relationship with some of our members and may have already shared some experiences, but I am just attempting to get all relevant information in one place.



We are a small club (about 30 members), yet consistently attract talented speakers who donate their time (Carl Ernst spoke at the August meeting). As a small, all volunteer organization, funds and time are very limited.



Many potential organizations want a rental fee. Though understandable, how many herp clubs are currently paying rent? If so, how much? How often do you meet, and what is the typical attendance? If you don't pay rent, what kind of organization (library, etc...) hosts you?



Many other potential organizations are willing to allow us to use their facilities free of charge, but dictate that we have liability insurance. How many herp clubs have liability insurance? How much does it cost, and what does it cover? What company/agent issued the insurance? We have researched this, but are few leads have come back as either too expensive or the underwriter denied coverage despite a perfect safety record at our club.



How do you cover your operating expenses? Do you raise money mostly from members dues and guest attendance charges, or do you do fundraising?



Any other tidbits you have about herp clubs in general would also be greatly appreciated.



Thank you for your time and feedback. Please send your responses to LCHerp@yahoogroups.com so that all of our active members can easily see the feedback as it comes in. Best of luck in all your future endeavors.



Zach Barton, board member and newsletter editor of Lancaster Herpetological Society

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