Reflections

Stewardship of Masonville Cove

Technology has changed the game for many industries including conservation. In order to effectively steward an area we must use all the tools available to us to collect, monitor and enhance the data we can obtain for conservation purposes. This semester I learned about several new sources for information and perspectives to consider when stewarding a site for biodiversity. From using new and different mapping tools for soil quality and what that means for a site, to analyzing the vegetation and biota diversity. Sometimes it is important to take a step back to look at the big picture to understand the small view of a site you may see in person. This semester also reminded me how to break down these complex issues of biodiversity and conservation into simpler terms for people who may not be as familiar with complex systems. 

Masonville Cove is managed and worked on by several stakeholders meaning communication is essential to work being achieved here. Having this many stakeholders is both beneficial and detrimental. Projects often take longer because it must be seen and approved by various people but then you also have the benefit of getting input from various perspectives. It's important to keep in mind who your audience is when developing stewardship plans.  Especially if you must communicate these things with the public and help them understand your conservation intentions for a property they are accessing or being impacted by. How do you communicate complex problems like biodiversity, or pollution, or invasive species? Using tools and technology to help create interesting, engaging and informative communication is key. 

In my previous position at a state land trust I worked in the stewardship of protected private lands. Everyday interacting with different stakeholders, landowners, property managers and community members. Having them understand your goals and priorities is just as important as understanding theirs. Stewardship is not a one key fits all doors solution, each project and property has its own challenges and priorities that must be addressed and assessed. I enjoy this part of conservation the most because it is like a social puzzle with environmental and conservation pieces to fit together. Creating a harmony between people, biodiversity, the land and society. This is just the start to my masters degree but so far this one semester has helped me realize this is the part of conservation I need to be in. It is where my passion lies and where I thrive in challenges. I hope moving forward my other classes will help build these skills and lead me to a position where I can make a difference. 

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