Postcards from the Field: Mitesh Patel

Shell Conservation Intern Mitesh Patel

Greetings from Montréal, Québec!

Having just graduated from Concordia University with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science, this summer I welcomed the opportunity to participate in the Shell Conservation Internship program. Over the course of the summer, I’ll be working to help conserve two rare species: the Spiny Softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera) in the Lake Champlain area; and the Copper Redhorse (Moxostoma hubbsi) which inhabits the Richelieu River. My role will be to promote NCC’s sustainable management program to residents on the Richelieu River and in the Lake Champlain area.

Mit working on the Copper Redhorse project (Photo by Gaetan Laplante, MNRF Québec)

Fishing is one of my favourite pastimes, so I feel very fortunate to get to work on the Copper Redhorse project. This unique and remarkable fish reaches sexual maturity at 10 years and can live beyond 30 years of age. Unfortunately, this fish is also listed on Canada’s endangered species list and worldwide is only found in Southern Québec. To help conserve this species I will be working to restore the riverbank of Richelieu River to its natural state, while keeping in mind the concerns of local residents. I will also conduct a shoreline inventory on two new NCC acquisitions – islands on the Richelieu River. I am conducting similar work for the Spiny Softshell turtle project on Lake Champlain, restoring the shoreline to allow for suitable nesting grounds.

My experience working with NCC has already surpassed my expectations!  I’m heading back to school in September to start my Master’s degree, but I know the network I have built during this internship will definitely benefit me throughout my career, and the memories will be cherished forever.

Mitesh Patel