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From the Field: Quebec
Postcards from the Field: Olivier Tessier
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| Shell Conservation Intern Olivier Tessier |
Greetings from the Gaspé Peninsula!
The first time I headed down to the Malbay Salt Marsh I learned just how rich the biodiversity is in an estuarine environment. I witnessed a grandiose courtship display which immediately charmed me! The Malbay is the largest and best preserved salt marsh in the Gaspé. The point where the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the four rivers that empty into the marsh meet is a setting of exceptional productivity, creating a habitat for more than 200 bird species!
Since arriving at the Malbay Salt Marsh, I have been conducting inventory outings in the field, and have had the chance to admire the arrival of several magnificent species of migratory birds. I have also been participating in the activities of the Comité de concertation du barachois de Malbaie (Malbay Salt Marsh Cooperation Committee) and in activities to create awareness among the general public and local schools. I have come to realize that the conservation of natural environments hinges on cooperation! I am also taking part in the activities of the Centre d’information ornithologique de Barachois (Ornithological Information Centre). This summer, in addition to the work at the salt marsh, I will develop a conservation plan for the natural area of Mont Ste-Anne, a priority conservation area that is also a site of tourism development. It is home to several endemic flower species and endangered wildlife such as the Bicknell’s Thrush.
I recently obtained my graduate degree in land-use planning and regional development (with an environmental concentration) from Université Laval in Quebec City. Participating in the conservation of the exceptional natural environments of the Barachois de Malbaie is an extraordinary opportunity to put to use the knowledge I acquired during my graduate studies. I hope my contribution to the protection of the salt marsh is only just beginning …
- Olivier Tessier
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