Emma, BSc student
Who am I and what is my fieldwork project?
My name is Emma. I'm a fourth year undergraduate student studying biology and music. For my undergraduate thesis, I am working in the Eckert Lab. My research involves the biological control of Centaurea stoebe, or spotted knapweed, by its herbivore control agents, Larinus minutus and Larinus obtusus. Spotted knapweed is a plant native to Europe which is considered an invasive species. Specifically, I am looking at whether there is an elevational mismatch between the range limits of both knapweed and its control agents. This past summer, my field season involved driving around southern interior British Columbia with my field assistant, Farrah, and monitoring transects along forest service roads. We tagged over 800 plants, and observed them throughout their growing season. We also collected insect samples and measured knapweed abundance across our three transects. Back in the lab, I was able to dissect seedheads to determine seed predation rates and understand the relationship between plant phenology and insect life cycles. I am currently using my dataset to understand how the biological control of knapweed changes as we move up in elevation.
What was the best part of fieldwork?
My favourite part of fieldwork was getting to explore so many new places! My fieldwork allowed me to continuously move around, and camp in so many beautiful areas. I got to explore my passion for ecology and apply my knowledge in a hands-on way. It was an incredible experience to be able to travel for my job, and I am grateful for the people and the places I encountered along the way.
What was the most challenging part of fieldwork?
My field season, as with many others, was a test of determination and endurance. Many days, my field assistant and I drove for hours between sites, and we collected data in the snow, rain, and even in a heat wave. Over the course of 10 weeks, we drove over 20,000 km! Living on the road tested our patience, but also showed us a new appreciation for the outdoors. Being off the grid most of the time, I was forced to use my judgment to make quick decisions about my project and although it was overwhelming at times, I am grateful to have had the opportunity.
