The start of something fun!

As my first blog post, I feel like this should be something of an introduction, so here goes nothing.

My name's Elaine Kennedy, I'm a recent graduate from the University of Guelph, and I've decided to create a blog to document my photography, hiking trips, work experiences, thoughts on the importance and management of native prairie, and progress on an edible plant field guide I'd like to make. I first came to the prairies last summer for a student position with the Canadian Wildlife Service in Saskatoon, which was so far probably the best summer I've had. I got to work outside almost every day with a wonderful partner, learning all about the history, ecology and beauty of the prairies. I got to learn prairie plants (shrubs, forbs, grasses, sedges and rushes!), birds, mammals, the ecological consequences of cultivation, and ways to manage and restore native grassland. Of course, I also learned about how friendly and fun the people are in Saskatchewan! After finishing my degree in Ontario, I took the first chance I could to move back, this time to Regina to work for the provincial government doing GIS work for a species at risk project. This summer I'll be working with the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute based out of Red Deer as a plant technologist, contributing to a province-wide species inventory and monitoring program. I aim to one day be a great botanist and help protect and restore the native prairie in Canada!

Apart from work, I do a lot of outdoor activities and take every opportunity I can to get outside and hike around. Some notable trips have been the Juan de Fuca trail in British Columbia, the Landmannalauger trail in Iceland, the Skyline trail in Alberta, and excursion in my favourite park: Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan.

Landmannalauger trail, Iceland

Mount Tekkara, Jasper National Park

Black-tailed prairie dog, Grasslands National Park

 I also enjoy photography, rock climbing, and playing the violin. I am currently making a photography web site that will hopefully be up and running soon! Another big project of mine is to create a field guide to edible plants in the Canadian Prairies. This started when I failed to find such a guide in print; most guides are to all of North America and I wanted something more specific to my new home. I'm hoping to organize it by season, and include some recipes and preparation methods. This might take a while but it'll get done eventually :)

Stay tuned for lots more photos and stories and fun stuff!