Tanner Field is taking his new position in stride.
It is never easy to start a new job, but for Field, the new WildSafe BC community coordinator, the transition could have been even more daunting as he moved into the role the popular Meg Toom vacated in August.
But Field, 24, seems to have a relaxed attitude about stepping into Toom’s shoes.
“I am basically taking it one step at a time,” he said. “Every day as I meet someone new, I am learning about some other role that Meg filled, so I definitely have a challenge ahead of me but I am excited about it.”
Field moved to Squamish about five years ago to study natural sciences at Quest University, he said.
His previous experience with the Vancouver Aquarium as a public educator helped him snag the WildsafeBC position, he said. When he is not working, Field enjoys hiking, drawing, painting and photographing wildlife.
What he likes about the community coordinator position is that every day is different, he said. He works information booths at places like the Squamish Farmers’ Market and up at Quest University for the incoming students, goes door to door when wildlife is in the area, and answers calls about wildlife that he sends on to conservation officers.
“It is fun to be able to keep learning with my job. It doesn’t seem like I have to do the same thing over and over. It is always changing, always something new.”
He said he urgently wants to educate Squamish residents that calling the conservation officers when a bear is in the area does not increase the chances the bear will be killed. “Calling is actually letting the conservation officers keep tabs on these animals and realize when they are starting to become a problem, instead of having to react to a situation.”
His position is funded through the British Columbia Conservation Foundation from May until November and then the District of Squamish may fund him through the winter, but the district has yet to commit to the winter season, he said.
To report a wildlife-human conflict or a suspected violation, call 1-877-952-7277.
