Postcards from the Field: Donald Humphrey

Shell Conservation Intern Donald Humphrey

Greetings from Nova Scotia,

Having spent the last year conducting research and teaching other university students about coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles, it’s refreshing to get my land legs back again. This summer has been a good reminder about why I enjoy the Canadian outdoors. Along with another Shell Conservation Intern, I’m conducting ecological assessments of NCC’s properties throughout Nova Scotia. This will provide NCC with the information necessary for successful management of their lands, and provide me with the opportunity to learn more about Nova Scotia’s wildlife.

Hirtles Beach at Gaff Point

A recent trip to Gaff Point made me realize how important an organization like NCC is to preserving the integrity, stability and beauty of this country’s natural areas. Gaff Point is located along the southern shore of Nova Scotia, between the towns of Lunenburg and Bridgewater. This pristine and undeveloped headland is surrounded by spectacular, sandy beaches and provides a breathtaking view of the southern coastline. While neighboring coastal lands are being developed at an alarming rate, this piece of property, protected over the past five years, will remain unspoiled for years to come.

I just graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland with an honours degree in Environmental Science and this fall, I will continue my career in academia by starting graduate school with the Earth and Ocean Sciences department at the University of British Columbia. My research will be dedicated to marine management and will focus on the transportation of invasive marine species through the ballast tanks of ships.

Enjoy the summer and remember:

“There is one cure for everything, saltwater: tears, sweat and the sea.” – Isaac Dinesen

Best wishes,

Donald Humphrey

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