Removing valuable minerals out of the earth and refining them into materials that are actually usable is tough, complicated work.

From geochemistry, construction management, chemical engineering and biological monitoring, there are many technical aspects to mining, and as an Environmental Compliance Consultant, I get exposed to many of them. It makes for interesting work, and each new project teaches you so much.

A myth that I’ve encountered is that mining personnel sometimes consider that production activities take precedence over environmental protection.  I haven’t been in the game that long, but I have encountered this at some mining operations, so we are sometimes bearers of bad news and plans need to be modified to meet regulatory requirements.

Once non-environmental personnel understand the requirements, there is usually no resistance.

My first job as a teen was as a dishwasher in an Italian restaurant. My first environmental job was as a summer student at an engineering firm dealing with contaminated sites.

I’d learn French. I was not a fan of French class in school, but my teacher Madame Nichole was right – it’s really useful.

“As time goes by in this give and take,
As long as I learn I will make mistakes”

-Just A Test, by the Beastie Boys off their album “Hello Nasty”

#1 – Go hunting. I’ve had my PAL (gun license) for years now, but it was frowned upon by a previous partner – so now’s my chance to try it!

#2 – Start gardening. I live in an apartment, so it may be a bit difficult, but the idea of growing my own food is very attractive to me.

North Cascades National Park in Washington state. It was the hardest hiking that I’ve ever done, but every painful meter of altitude was worth it. The cute marmots alone justify a visit.