Postcards from the Field: Jean-Francois Lafond

Shell Conservation Intern Jean-Francois Lafond

Greetings from the marvelous Gaspé peninsula!

This summer, I am a Shell Conservation Intern which gives me the pleasure of discovering the beauty afforded by the Barachois of Malbaie (salt marsh estuary) in the Gaspé.  From the sandy beaches with steep shores to the turquoise sea and lush forests, the area abounds with sights that are an absolute treat.

To preserve this magnificent ecosystem, I have been given an opportunity to work on several projects – one is a series of interpretative panels which will enable the various users to appreciate the finest the Barachois has to offer.  I will also be visiting the 15 properties protected by Nature Conservation between Gaspé and Percé.  These visits will make it possible to prepare species inventories to help preserve the ecological integrity of these habitats.  If Lady Luck is on my side, I will perhaps be able to see a Yellow Rail (Coturnicops noveboracensis) or a Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow (Ammodramus nelsoni), two species-at-risk that inhabit the Barachois.  I will also enjoy meeting with various property owners along the Barachois to make them aware of the importance of protecting this exceptional site.  These meetings may also help to discover new partners wishing to take part in our conservation project.

O’Reilly property, Barachois of Malbaie

I am finishing up my final undergraduate year in ecology at the University of Sherbrooke, and this internship has provided an exceptional opportunity to tie together the knowledge I acquired during my studies and the skills I’m developing in applied ecological techniques.  Since I have always wanted to work in the conservation of natural areas, I will be able to draw on this internship, which is the ultimate experience, to develop all of the assets required for me to be successful in this field.

It is my hope you will visit this magnificent area!

Jean-François Lafond