Conserving Wetlands: Tools and Strategies for Effective Stewardship

Webinar Recording

In this webinar, Jess Lewis from Nature Nova Scotia and Mike Kofahl from East Coast Environmental Law discussed efforts to protect mainland moose and their crucial wetland habitats. They also reviewed the current legislative frameworks—federal, provincial, and municipal—that govern the health and protection of these wetlands.

Are you passionate about protecting biodiversity? Joining the Biodiversity Caucus is a great way to connect with other passionate individuals, unearth opportunities to get involved, and stay in the know on biodiversity issues. Whether you are an NGO representative, an academic, or an individual eager to make a difference, you are welcome to participate in the group. For more information on the caucus, visit nsenvironmentalnetwork.com/biodiversity

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Guest Speakers

Jess Lewis - Conservation Coordinator, Nature Nova Scotia

Raised amidst the rugged landscapes of St. John's, Newfoundland, Jess' passion for botany and ecology led her to study Plant Science at Dalhousie University, Truro NS. Her experience ranges from researching wild bee populations in blueberry fields to engaging in critical discussions about environmental policies and climate change. Now, she spearheads our species at risk and sustainable forestry projects. Off work, you'll find Jess at the SPCA, creating botanical drawings, crafting pressed flower jewelry, or tending her garden. Jess thrives on building connections, learning from experiences, and believing in collective action for effective conservation and preserving nature for future generations.

Mike Kofahl - Staff Lawyer, East Coast Environmental Law

Mike graduated from Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law in 2017. While in law school, he worked with East Coast Environmental Law as a Pro Bono student and earned certificates of specialization in marine law and environmental law from the Marine and Environmental Law Institute. After law school, Mike completed shared articles with East Coast Environmental Law and McKiggan Hebert. He then worked as ECEL’s Coastal Research Coordinator until he was called to the Bar and became a staff lawyer.

Mike’s law practice is primarily focused on marine and coastal law issues, including marine protected areas, shipping, offshore resource regulation, coastal protection and access, and wetland stewardship. Additionally, he works on impact assessments and regional assessments and restorative justice. Mike also coordinates ECEL’s pro bono student and summer internship programs.

Mike has always been drawn to nature. He grew up, and now lives, along the beautiful Margaree River. He spent a large portion of his early adult life working outside, including an 11-year seasonal career as a tree-planter during which he planted 1.5 million trees. He enjoys cooking, BBQing, hiking, running long distance, playing soccer and curling, photography, and being a new dad. Mike also occasionally facilitates restorative justice circles and volunteers on the board of the Community Justice Society – HRM as its vice president.