Postcards from the Field: Theresa Fingler

Shell Conservation Intern Theresa Fingler

Hello from the beautiful coast of British Columbia!

So far, I have really enjoyed this rewarding experience working as a Shell Conservation Intern with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC)

I recently graduated from the University of Victoria with a BSc, majoring in geography.  My main concentration has been in the areas of GIS and cartography, with an emphasis on coastal and marine ecology. Working as an intern for NCC has allowed me to combine my practical training in GIS with an added outdoor field element. From the office, I have provided support to other field interns by creating maps and data sets of the various properties throughout the province.

Pender Island, B.C.

When not in the office, I am also able to get out to the field to gather my own data and see these properties first hand. One of the most interesting sites I have visited was Brooks Point on Pender Island, part of the Gulf Islands. Brooks Point provides some of the most spectacular views on the Gulf Islands and it is a great spot to view seabirds, killer whales and other marine mammals. This coastal headland has an interesting mix of woodland, exposed headland and rocky shoreline that provides a home for many species of birds, plants and invertebrates.

The combination of office and field work has provided me with valuable opportunities to apply the theory side of GIS from my university courses to practical situations. Once my internship is over this summer, I hope to continue my GIS work, combining it with conservation elements pertaining to British Columbia. The skills and experience I have gained while working with NCC will benefit any future work I do for the conservation of species and environments throughout the province.

Theresa Fingler