From the Field: Ontario

Postcards from the Field: Ian Reid

Shell Conservation Intern Ian Reid

Greetings from NCC's National Office, Toronto

It's great working for NCC again. Last summer, I worked for NCC's Development Team while attending Ryerson's Analytical Geography program. After graduating in May, I've returned to NCC as a Shell Conservation Intern, Biodiversity Information Technician, in the Science department.

Map of Canada's Natural Masterpieces by Ian Reid

After organizing NCC's geographic spatial data library, I am now creating provincial map templates using this information so I can create high-quality maps for NCC's Conservancy Manual. The Manual details all of NCC's property holdings across the country. One of my biggest accomplishments so far this summer was the creation of a map of the Happy Valley Forest on the Oak Ridges Moraine. NCC used this map at the launch of its Campaign for Conservation: Saving Canada's Natural Masterpieces. I created a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) map using orthophotography, digital aerial photography, for the campaign launch. GIS technology is frequently used in cartography and allows you to create and manipulate maps on the computer using a layered system. Each layer holds its own set of data; for example, one layer can be the road network while another can be local streams. By using highlighting and marking tools, I can customize a map for a particular task or project. By using a regular road map as a guide, I was able to hand digitize features on the GIS map and later magnify the campaign launch site: the 78-acre Happy Valley property belonging to Dr. Henry and Mrs. Kathleen Barnett who donated a conservation easement to NCC. GIS is important to NCC's science program because it allows us to monitor, organize and manage conservation properties across Canada. By using GIS we are able to share information easily and make informed decisions.

I have a great interest in filmmaking. I have written a short film which was featured in a local film festival and was the assistant director for Urban Soul's video "All Night" which was nominated for two Much Music Video Awards. After the summer, I hope to continue on expanding NCC's GIS abilities.

Cheers,

Ian Reid

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