Postcards from the Field: Elisa Bernier

Shell Conservation Intern Elisa Bernier

This summer is flying by!

From one day to the next, I find myself busy with anything from identifying unknown plants, to crossing 40-metre beaver dams to access remote properties! Alongside my two co- interns, the learning curve has been exponential, and everyone has so much knowledge to contribute. Each field excursion is another opportunity to strengthen my flora and fauna identification skills in some captivating areas of Eastern Ontario.

So far, we’ve hiked through all types of habitats and spotted an abundance of orchids along the way. Among the exceptional finds, we have seen Ram’s-head Lady’s-slipper  as well as dazzling tanagers and kingfishers.

Creelman and Salkeld Property, Smith's Falls Limestone Plain, Ontario

One of my favourite natural areas has been the Smiths Falls Limestone Plain, where we conducted an invasive species assessment of Purple Loosestrife. I found something calming about being surrounded by blooming irises and chirping songbirds in the midst of swarming mosquitoes and sweltering heat.

As a student at McGill in renewable resource management, I realize the usefulness of the skills I have gained throughout my degree. A wide range of knowledge from the natural sciences to communications is called upon to meet the challenges of this internship. Although I look forward to returning to finish my last year at Macdonald Campus, I am truly enjoying discovering what the Ottawa region has to offer.

I’m honoured to be working for the Nature Conservancy of Canada as a Shell Conservation Intern. The skills I have gained throughout this experience will be definite assets when pursuing a career. Even though I have no concrete plans for the future, I know for sure that I will be working in the environmental field.

Enjoy the summer!

Elisa Bernier