Nature Conservancy interns discover Cape Region
Two University of Delaware students spent part of their summer learning about the Cape Region’s rich natural resources as they worked at the Delaware Nature Conservancy’s Milton office.
Jennifer Ehret and Nick Musacchio, both about to begin their final semester, worked with conservancy staff on research and field work. On July 25, both interns worked at the Pemberton Preserve, replacing signs along roads that designate the forest as a nature sanctuary.
Ehret, 23, of Hockessin, is a senior majoring in animal and food science with a minor in wildlife conservation. “Being able to work both in an office environment as well as being in the natural environment gives you a look at both ends of the spectrum and has helped me combine the interests I have studied in school,” she said. “This experience has not only been beneficial to growing our knowledge but when it comes to conservation and environmental issues, any contribution counts no matter how big or small.”
Delaware Nature Conservancy’s website notes the agency has preserved more than 30,000 acres in Delaware. Both interns learned how much effort the organization puts into rehabilitating diverse habitats on conservancy lands.
“I was able to learn so much about plant species and land management this summer ... We got to experience the beautiful natural landscapes that Delaware has to offer,” Ehret said.
One of her favorite places was Bullseye-Ferry Landing along Indian River because it offers diverse plants and animals. Ehret said going forward, she would like to go into wildlife management or become a game warden.
Musacchio, 22, of Newark, majors in wildlife ecology and conservation.
“Being boots on the ground and seeing the actions that are taken is a great experience for anyone and has taught us so much about land management and stewardship, among many other integral parts of conservation,” he said. “It was very enjoyable to see the variance in ecosystems and how each one is unique.”
Throughout the 10-week internship, Ehret and Musacchio visited nature preserves and wildlife sanctuaries, participating in a horseshoe crab survey, research, preserve management and building bog bridges at McCabe Preserve.
“Coming from an area rich with city life and suburbs, it was certainly a change of pace for us given the different types of areas in Southern Delaware. We felt welcome immediately not only by the conservancy staff, with whom we share a common interest, but the residents of Milton and Sussex County,” Musacchio said.
He said one of his favorite places was Big Stone Beach on Delaware Bay because of the shorebirds and migratory species and the transition of beach to wetlands. He said he’d like to become a wildlife photojournalist.
In addition to Ehret and Musacchio, five high school students participated in 10-week internships in the conservancy’s Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future program. Two UD students also participated in the Growing Leaders on Behalf of the Environment program.
For more information visit: https://www.nature.org/delaware.
