Postcards from the Field: Andrea Jackson
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| Shell Conservation Intern Andrea Jackson |
Hello from Alberta!
My name is Andrea Jackson, and I’m one of three Shell Conservation Interns working with the Nature Conservancy of Canada based out of Calgary. I have recently completed my B.Sc. degree in Biology and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria, in British Columbia, and I’m excited to be putting the theory and facts I learned into practical use!
Though I was born and raised in Calgary, after 4 years in BC surrounded by totally different vegetation communities, it’s great to experience the beautiful landscapes so close to home. We’re lucky to be in such a diverse area; within 2 hours of Calgary the land changes from vast prairies to rolling foothills and towering mountains!
I can’t believe how much I’ve already seen and learned after less than a month on the job. The importance of birdcalls became immediately obvious, as some of our more visually elusive species are very vocal! However, catching a glimpse of many species I had never seen before (except in books) has definitely been a highlight. So far I’ve seen American Goldfinches, a Spotted Sandpiper, and a Great Grey Owl, among many others. My vegetation identification skills have also improved drastically, and I’m really enjoying seeing the different flowers go in and out of bloom as the seasons change. I’m going to work hard to further all of my identification skills as the summer continues!
After the internship, I plan to continue to work in this field, either with a conservation organization or as a consultant. I hope to return to university as well, to get a Master’s degree in Ecology. It’s great to be so actively involved in conservation activities, and this experience will be invaluable wherever my future takes me!
Cheers!
Andrea Jackson
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