Spending the summer with the Ontario Farmland Trust (OFT) has been an incredibly rewarding and eye-opening experience both professionally and personally. As someone with a passion for ornithology and conservation, this co-op has allowed me to deepen my species identification skills, explore rich and diverse ecosystems across Ontario, and contribute meaningfully to the protection of farmland.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my time with OFT has been the opportunity to conduct monitoring visits across a range of protected properties. Each site told its own story. No two farms were the same, and neither were the forests, wetlands, and meadows that surrounded them. Every visit offered a unique window into the biodiversity that thrives on these lands. From vibrant hayfields buzzing with Bobolink to quiet woodlots home to the Eastern Wood-pewee and Wood Thrush, each property reminded me of how vital farmland is, not just for food production, but for entire ecosystems.
A true highlight of the summer was conducting ecological assessments for the Allan and Mighton properties. These days in the field were unforgettable. I spent hours exploring off-trail terrain, navigating through unfamiliar forest types, and taking the time to observe the subtle and striking signs of life around me. One especially memorable moment was stepping into a prime amphibian breeding woodland, wearing my rainboots and surrounded by over a dozen frogs calling from the swampy understory, as I searched for indicator species of sensitive habitats. The chance to discover species at risk – such as my first Bobolink sighting on the Douglas property or a stand of living Black Ash amidst many dead ones – was both rewarding and inspiring. Fieldwork, like what I did this summer, is an irreplaceable experience for any budding conservationist and reaffirmed why I chose this path.
This summer also shifted how I understand and define farmland. The biggest lesson I learned is that farmland is more than just the cultivated fields. From the woodlots, stream corridors, wetlands, and natural features, I’ve learned that protecting farmland means protecting whole ecosystems. Seeing OFT’s work to increase farmland accessibility, particularly through the exciting plans for the Bourgeois Farm, has been incredibly meaningful to me. Being a part of an organization that not only protects farmland but also makes it more accessible for the next generation of farmers has made me feel like I’m contributing to something truly impactful and lasting. It’s a reminder that protecting land is about people as much as it is about ecosystems.
My time at OFT has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve built valuable field skills, expanded my knowledge of land conservation, and had the chance to spend time in some truly remarkable landscapes. It’s been a great summer of learning, growth, and connection with the land, and I’m sincerely grateful for the opportunity to be part of this important work!
