Postcards from the Field: Nick Hawkins

Shell Conservation Intern Nick Hawkins

Hello!

It is very exciting to be involved with the conservation of our natural areas here in New Brunswick and PEI as a Shell Conservation Intern. I was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick and grew up just outside the city limits. I have always had a keen interest in the natural world and knew from a young age that I was destined to study biology. I am now entering my final year of a major in biology at the University of New Brunswick with an interest in marine biology and conservation.

Tabustinac Estuary, Northumberland County, New Brunswick

So far this summer I have traveled throughout New Brunswick and PEI monitoring coastal wetland properties and have had the opportunity to experience both the beauty and fragility of these ecosystems. I have just returned from a trip to the Acadian Peninsula where NCC has protected important breeding habitat for the endangered Piping Plover, a small shorebird that relies on coastal beaches to feed and raise its young. I have also traveled to Calgary to meet with the other Shell Conservation interns from across the country. The three-day event made it very evident that the program has succeeded in its goal of bringing together young, talented and passionate conservationists.

I am not sure what awaits me once I graduate from UNB, but I do know that I will strive to be involved with the protection of our natural ecosystems around the globe. I hope to focus my efforts on our oceans, where some of the largest conservation problems remain unsolved. Wherever life may take me I am positive that the NCC has given me a great head start and for that I am truly grateful

Tight lines,

Nick Hawkins