Grassroots, Prairie Pothole Region, Science

DUC Manitoba recognizes women in science

Saluting dedication of female staff in applying science-based solutions to the challenges of climate change and sustainable agriculture

By Glen Kirby February 09, 2022

(l to r) DUC Manitoba employees Lena Van Den Elsen, Shannon Moncur and Heidi Hislop

A female perspective is critical when developing and delivering conservation programs, say employees with Manitoba operations of DUC.

^“

Women and girls experience life differently and so we hold different knowledge, We can use this knowledge to help ‘paint the bigger picture’, to guide conservation efforts and encourage others to foster a two-way relationship with nature that ensures our actions are for the benefit of all.

Heidi Hislop, Conservation Programs Specialist

Women in science

As part of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, 2022, DUC Manitoba is recognizing Hislop, conservation programs specialist Lena Van Den Elsen and administrative assistant Shannon Moncur.

“Heidi, Lena and Shannon have collectively contributed almost 50 years towards protecting and restoring ponds, sloughs and natural areas with DUC in Manitoba,” says Mark Francis, manager of provincial operations. “We salute their dedication in applying science-based solutions to the challenges of climate change and sustainable agriculture.”

Joining DUC Manitoba in 2015, Lena became the first woman to work directly with landowners in securing wetlands and grasslands for permanent conservation.

^“

I think it’s important to find a cause that you are passionate about, whether it’s conservation or not. The waterfowl field has historically been male dominated. I look around now and our team is predominantly women.

Lena Van Den Elsen, Conservation Programs Specialist

Equal opportunity

DUC Manitoba currently employs 14 women among 28 staff.

Shannon Moncur has been with DUC Manitoba since 1986, through “mind-boggling” technological advancements including computers, cell phones and Global Positioning System (GPS). As senior administrative assistant, she organizes and documents DUC’s science-based conservation programs.

^“

Conservation affects us all. Being 50 per cent of the population makes it crucial that women and girls are part of how society values conservation.

Shannon Moncur, Administrative Assistant

About DUC in Manitoba

DUC is Manitoba’s oldest and most-recognized conservation group and has protected 736,796 acres in the province since 1938.

Careers in conservation

Interested in finding out more about the employment opportunities DUC has to offer?

Visit our Careers page

Read these stories next

Pure dedication: Arthur Irving’s legacy of conservation

Atlantic, Grassroots, Science