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From the field: Ontario
Laura Mousseau
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| Shell Conservation Intern Laura Mousseau |
Working with NCC here in Guelph has been an amazing experience so far! Since graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Guelph this spring, I have been given both office and field related tasks.
In the office, I’m helping to structure NCC’s project data, both paper and electronic information, according to Ontario’s new sub-regional Land Information system. This part of my work has been really interesting because I’m learning all about the history of our many properties. I find this background especially helpful when I visit the sites!
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Baby Turkey Vulture
near Turkey Point |
In the field, I’ve learned Ecological Land Classification methods, plant identification, and conservation management techniques. I’ve helped with two volunteer events (through the Volunteer for Nature program) at our Turkey Point Nature Reserve. On our first trip we removed invasive Garlic Mustard and Oriental Bittersweet, and on our second visit we planted butterfly-friendly plants to encourage butterflies to visit. I’ve even been privileged enough to see a Turkey Vulture growing up on this site! I also participated in a tour of Bickford Oak Woods, which was recently transferred to the Ministry of Natural Resources. The tour was for Gord Miller, the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario, and we glimpsed the rare Swamp Cottonwood! This site is the only known occurrence of Swamp Cottonwood in all of Canada. Other trips have taken me to the Oak Ridges Moraine, Bruce Peninsula and Maitland Valley, and I look forward to seeing many more sites around Ontario!
I know that my experiences with NCC will be invaluable for future employment and I hope to continue working in positions that offer great field opportunities and with organizations as dedicated to conservation as NCC.
Here’s to many more adventures to come,
Laura Mousseau
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