Postcards from the Field: Tonya Lwiwski

Shell Conservation Intern Tonya Lwiwski

Hello from friendly Manitoba!

Working in two different natural areas in Manitoba, Riding Mountain Aspen Parkland and Tall Grass Prairie, has given me an appreciation for the array of habitats and plants of my home province.  I’ve visited aspen parkland all my life, but have never really seen it.  The beauty of the mountains (yes, Manitoba has mountains!) is unmistakable, but to be able to walk up a steep slope from a valley and find a multitude of Western Wood Lilies is something that just can’t be explained.  To be a part of the conservation of this area is incredible!

Riding Mountain Aspen Parkland, Manitoba

I’m also really excited about conserving Tall Grass Prairie.  After learning that this endangered habitat previously covered almost all of South Central Manitoba, I knew I wanted to help protect the small amount that’s left. NCC has already conserved over 20 000 acres of tall grass prairie, and my work this summer will be to help write baseline reports for some of these properties. This involves lots of plant identification!  It’s fantastic – I’m actually putting to use the skills I learned in classes, and learning even more tricks that you’d never learn indoors.

So far this summer, I’ve already had the experience of a lifetime! When I joined the Ecology program at the University of Manitoba, I was unsure if that was the right path for me.  After working as a Shell Conservation Intern, I now know that I’m passionate about conservation, and excited for what’s to come!

Don’t forget the bear spray!

Tonya Lwiwski