I was introduced to the concept of land trusts in my second year of university, and have a passion for working with and for community members; BHHT provided an amazing experience for continued learning and fostered my appreciation for community-centered conservation efforts!
Working with BHHT allowed me to realize that the career path I’ve been striving for throughout university is a step in the right direction. The internship gave me hands-on experience to build the foundation of my skillset, and support from the organization created endless opportunities to learn, grow, and explore.
We got hands-on training, but beyond the physical training, we were exposed to how the organization runs as a whole. We were exposed to outreach events, planning, and coordination with Beth, Brooke, and Emily. We learned the process of grant applications and writing with Harlie and shadowed development planning and preparation with Harlie and Megan. JW showed us the ropes in forestry activities (and solidified my enthusiasm for timber cruising!); Andrew trained us on big tools and trail construction, and Emily helped lead us through trail maintenance. George took us along to monitor easements and showed us what goes into property acquisition (a big legal-interest of mine!), and much more! Most importantly, the office would come together and collaborate. The atmosphere for myself and my co-interns Vienna and Renee was constantly supportive, and getting a big-picture view of a land trust makes me excited for working in the environment and conservation field!
From growing up in an area that was not conservation focused and living in a big city throughout university, the summer with BHHT helped foster my love for nature beyond our work- getting to explore the peninsula with the team and volunteers opened my eyes to a community rooted in the shared love for the land. I’m incredibly grateful for my time with BHHT and the opportunities that have been provided, and I look forward to returning to the peninsula and sharing the area with friends and family!