My experience at CWC has been great! Each day, I arrive at work ready to tackle a new challenge and engage in a variety of tasks. This summer, I have removed invasive species, cataloged plants, planted trees, and monitored conservation easements. I have also enjoyed working at the Farmers Market in Island Park; it has been fun meeting CWC supporters. Overall, I have learned so much from my experience.
I am gaining experience identifying plants, birds, and animals. I have cataloged plants at numerous preserves and find myself teaching friends and families about species of plants I have become familiar with from my time working in the preserves. It is important for me to take what I have learned at CWC and educate those around me on how to be better stewards to the environment.
In particular, I have found invasive species removal to be the most fulfilling. I thoroughly enjoy the feeling after a long day of removing invasive species and I can see the immediate positive impacts on the environment. I have spent many hours removing autumn olive (invasive plant) from Bundy Hill Preserve. I have become deeply connected to the land I’ve removed invasive species on. Another invasive plant I’ve had the opportunity to remove is garlic mustard at Millpond. By removing these invasive plants, it gives native plants the opportunity to thrive. It’s the direct impacts I make on these preserves that make me feel the most fulfilled. Invasive species management is long term, and I am happy to be a part of this work.
All in all, my internship has been shaping me into a more well-rounded individual. Most importantly I am trying to apply what I am learning from CWC into my daily life. This internship has revealed to me that there is a lot left to learn, and I am just at the beginning of my journey. My love for nature and my curiosity for nature has just only grown in my time here. I appreciate the efforts we are making to preserve nature, and I am incredibly grateful to be a part of this nonprofit’s legacy. CWC has introduced me to so many beautiful preserves and I’ve learned how to manage these preserves. Thank you for everyone who is reading this, and on CWC’s behalf, thank you for supporting CWC.
– Avery Geisen
