


AVIAN NEST SWEEP SERVICES
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Nest / bird breeding season surveys
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Owl surveys
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Bat presence and habitat check
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Pre and post construction nest and bat surveys
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Raptor nest checks and follow-up monitoring
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Surveys during bird migration seasons
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Nest monitoring before and after construction
Inspired by the vivid call of a red-winged blackbird, my “spark bird,” I bring over a decade of curiosity-driven, field-based experience in environmental monitoring and wildlife surveys.
Regulatory Considerations for Nesting and Breeding Habitat Disturbance
Projects that may impact nesting or breeding habitats of migratory birds require appropriate regulatory approval. In Canada, three primary pieces of legislation govern activities that could affect listed Endangered or Threatened species. These must be considered during the planning and execution of many projects:
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The Federal Migratory Birds Convention Act (MCBA) provides for the protection of migratory birds, and their habitats.
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The Federal Species At Risk Act (SARA) provides protection for listed species and guidelines for their protection.
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In Alberta the Wildlife Act (WA) provides protection for Endangered Species.

Environmental Field Skills Certificate
Trained through the Environmental Field Skills Program (EFSP) at
NRTG
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Proficient in environmental monitoring techniques across diverse natural resource sectors (mining, hydroelectric, oil & gas, forestry, and road construction)
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Skilled in terrestrial fieldwork, including habitat assessment and vegetation monitoring
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Experienced in water quality monitoring, with knowledge of sampling protocols and data interpretation
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Competent in fish and fish habitat assessment, including identification and impact evaluation techniques
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Knowledgeable in construction monitoring, ensuring regulatory compliance and environmental protection
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Familiar with standard field tools and technologies used in environmental assessments
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Capable of supporting biologists, engineers, and hydrologists in the monitoring and assessment of environmental impacts
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Strong foundation in essential field skills, including data collection, reporting, safety protocols, and site navigation

CORNELL LAB / BIRD ACADEMY
Warbler Identification
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Proficient in identifying warblers by color patterns, markings, size, shape, and behavior
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Skilled in distinguishing sexes and seasonal plumage variations
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Experienced in recognizing warbler songs and vocalizations
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Knowledgeable in habitat, range, and regional species distribution
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Field-tested identification skills across widespread, eastern, and western warbler species
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Adept at using observational cues to locate and identify birds in various environments

Electrofishing Certificate
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Trained in electrofishing theory and principles, with a focus on fish behavior and electrical field dynamics
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Proficient in equipment operation and safety procedures for electrofishing in freshwater environments
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Hands-on experience with backpack electrofishing techniques for effective fish capture and monitoring
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Knowledgeable in fish sampling and handling best practices, ensuring minimal stress and accurate data collection
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Skilled in water quality assessment and understanding of environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems
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Supplementary Field Experience
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Conducted gopher relocation projects, including humane trapping and habitat assessment
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Performed bat surveys using acoustic monitoring and roost inspection techniques
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Participated in aerial raptor monitoring through helicopter surveys
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Carried out owl surveys utilizing call-playback methods and nocturnal observation
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Volunteered in waterfowl banding operations, assisting with capture, handling, and data collection
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Conducted water quality surveys including sampling for pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels in freshwater systems.
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Performed riparian zone assessments to evaluate vegetation health, erosion, buffer width, and habitat quality

Avian Nest Sweeps
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Trained in developing and executing nest sweep plans in compliance with regulatory and project requirements
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Able to identify common bird species and nest types relevant to environmental monitoring and protection
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Skilled in selecting appropriate equipment for avian surveys and field data collection
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Knowledgeable in species- and habitat-specific survey techniques to minimize disturbance and ensure data accuracy
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Experienced in designing efficient data sheets for tracking nest activity and reporting survey results
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Capable of communicating effectively with clients and regulators to support compliance and conservation goals
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Trained in developing and executing nest sweep plans in compliance with regulatory and project requirements
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Able to identify common bird species and nest types relevant to environmental monitoring and protection
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Skilled in selecting appropriate equipment for avian surveys and field data collection
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Knowledgeable in species- and habitat-specific survey techniques to minimize disturbance and ensure data accuracy
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Experienced in designing efficient data sheets for tracking nest activity and reporting survey results
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Capable of communicating effectively with clients and regulators to support compliance and conservation goals
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Construction Site Monitoring
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Experience monitoring water quality during construction activities such as dewatering and excavation to prevent contamination of nearby water bodies
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Skilled in assessing soil quality for contamination and overseeing remediation to ensure compliance with environmental standards and project suitability
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Proficient in implementing biodiversity protection measures, including monitoring for sensitive species and habitats and applying mitigation strategies to minimize ecological impact
Rachel Boekel - Canmore, AB - 403-373-7579 - rachel@rachelboekel.com








