My data collection is all done and for the most part, went quite smoothly. I am studying the effects of invasive Canada geese (Branta canadensis) on an estuarine sedge species (Carex Lyngbyei) in the Little Qualicum Estuary. Data was collected from 4 sites in the intertidal zone, 2 disturbed sites (control) and 2 undisturbed sites (exclusion zones). Fortunately for me, restoration efforts are already underway in the estuary and exclusion zones (aka Eco-cultural habitat exclosures) were already in place.
Problems mostly arose with the weather and tides. The tides in November tend to be quite high so there was limited access to the site during daylight hours. Also, the week of my data collection the “bomb cyclone” moved over the island, delaying my site visits. Lastly, I didn’t want to disturb the habitat exclosures as ecological restoration was in process so measurements were taken as accurately as possible through the fence.