Environmental Co-op student; Teck Coal Ltd; Sparwood, BC
This is my fifth and final co-op work term, and my third term with Teck Coal Ltd. I have been working as an Environmental Co-op as part of the Fish Team since January 2023. The Fish Team is responsible for fish habitat and population monitoring in and around Teck’s mine sites in the Elk Valley. So far, I’ve spent this term working in the field on a wide range of projects including angling surveys, barrier assessments, and stream temperature monitoring.
One of the main projects I’ve been working on is leading our team’s offsetting and recovery camera program. This project involves using wildlife cameras to qualitatively monitor offsetting and recovery habitat, drying and stranding areas, and overwintering conditions to support the recovery of Westslope Cutthroat Trout in the Upper Fording River. I have also been leading this year’s survey and analysis of unanchored large woody debris in the Upper Fording River, which was placed to improve habitat for Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The co-op program has been an invaluable experience where I’ve been able to learn more about my interests, future career options, and gain valuable skills and connections that I will take with me after I graduate.