Emily Ratch and Terri Jones joined the Nature Trust from May-August 2025 as Stewardship Field Assistants; Emily’s primary focus was completing baseline field work for newly acquired properties, while Terri’s primary focus was completing annual monitoring of properties and private conservation easements in Nature Trust care, as well as some bumble bee surveys.

Emily’s position was funded by the Clean Foundation’s ‘Clean Leadership Summer Internship Program‘, which provides paid employment opportunities for youth (aged 15-30) in Nova Scotia’s environmental sector. Terri’s position was funded by the province’s Student Summer Skills Incentive (SKILL) program, which assists non-profit organizations to hire post-secondary students for the summer; as a returning higher education student, Terri’s time with the Nature Trust will count towards her required work-integrated-learning placement that is needed to complete her diploma.

We are so grateful to both Terri and Emily for their joyful and extremely helpful contributions this summer! As part of their send-off, we asked them a few questions about what they will be taking away with them from this experience.

Question 1: What was your favourite memory from this summer?

Emily: One of my favourite memories this summer was going to Cape Breton for the first time. I joined our volunteer team to help out with the Cape Breton volunteer hub, where we visited Maskell’s Harbour and the Pony’s Point properties. The views of the iconic coastline were breathtaking. That evening, Liv and I headed to the Iona Inn for fish and chips. The atmosphere was incredible, filled with lively fiddle music, and décor that highlighted the rich culture of the area. It was such a great way to kick off the summer.

Terri: Bumblebee surveys! It was on a beautiful property and amazing to learn more about bumblebees. It was really fun to be able to go out with nets to catch and ID them. We even found a Yellow-banded Bumblebee.

Question 2: What was your favourite Nature Trust property?

Emily: Purcells Cove is such a unique property with its rocky landscape and stunning views. Fiona and I hiked to the very top where we could see the ocean stretching out across the horizon. It was an intermediate level hike, but the payoff was absolutely worth it.

Terri: Molega Lake. It is a property surrounded by a lake, with beautiful, forested areas. I was even able to go for a quick dip at the end of the peninsula.

Question 3: What was your favourite species or wildlife encounter this summer?

Emily: After hiking about halfway through Purcells Cove, Fiona and I took a break on the rocks overlooking the lake, forest, and city below. As we enjoyed our lunch, we noticed birds gliding above us, they were Common Nighthawks! About five of them swooped and swerved through the air, calling to one another. It was an awesome experience and made the hike even more memorable!

Terri: Hard to choose between the Yellow-banded Bumblebee or seeing a Blackburnian Warbler for the first time. We also saw a grey seal from an island property!

Question 4: What’s your biggest takeaway or lesson?

Emily: A lesson that I learn with every field season is how to find the balance between being prepared and staying flexible. Inevitably, unforeseen challenges come up during fieldwork, and it’s important to adapt to whatever is thrown your way. Whether its weather delays, equipment failures, or blisters on your feet, the key is to stay resourceful and positive, while focusing on solutions rather than setbacks.

Terri: That sometimes it’s good to just take the leap. I gained confidence in myself and my decision-making abilities and learned to push myself, even though it can be uncomfortable. That’s how we grow!

Question 5: What’s next for you?

Emily: I plan to continue searching for full-time work in conservation. I feel that the skills, knowledge, and connections I’ve gained with the Nova Scotia Nature Trust have prepared me for the next steps in my career. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for me.

Terri: I will be going back to finish the NRET (Natural Resource Environmental Technology) program at NSCC. From there, I hope to continue working in the conservation field.