I’m Joel Enman and I’m joining the Ontario Farmland Trust as the Farmland Conservation Specialist. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph in Zoology, followed by a Masters of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario. Prior to joining OFT, my background has been in conservation and sustainability. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of industries including veterinary, zoological, agricultural, environmental monitoring, and land conservation in both the public and private sector.
My journey to OFT has been an interesting one to say the least. For many years, I worked in animal care and had considered a career working exclusively in that field. As I began to consider pivoting towards environmental conservation, I realized that my career could incorporate my passion for animals and the environment. My Master’s degree was the perfect amalgamation of these two interests and led me to spending the last few years working in public policy where I managed federal funding to help support ENGOs, Indigenous communities, provinces and territories in land conservation. This was such rewarding work but my heart knew that as rewarding as it was, my place was in the field.
In my free time, conservation and sustainability play a big part of my hobbies and recreational activities. Being outdoors with nature is something that’s equally important to me outside of work. If you’re in the Guelph area, you’re likely to find me kayaking the Speed River, walking my greyhound through the Arboretum, strolling through a farmer’s market or working on my own home garden. I spend some time every summer in PEI where my father’s family is from and always make time to visit my family’s farm.
I’m excited for the opportunity to be a part of this team where I hope to enact meaningful change by expanding the protection of agricultural land across Ontario.