The reason for doing this internship
sponsored
through a Fund for
the
Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), U.
S. Department of Educationgrant with the aquaculture program at the Atlantic Veterinary College,
Prince Edward Island, Canada, this summer was to gain exposure to an industry
that has interested
me for some time, While I was interested in the research that was taking place,
I was more concerned with discovering how the various aquaculture industries
were operated and to
what extent those industries would need veterinary care and consulting.
I was able to participate in research projects
in the salmon, mussel and lobster industries. The involvement allowed me to observe
firsthand the various industries and interact with the people involved in those
industries. During my time on the island I was able to take several overnight trips to New
Brunswick in order to sample salmon kidneys for Infectious Salmon Anemia. I was shown the
facilities, was able to talk with the people managing the fitrins, and was given a clear
picture of the business and the issues that are, at this time, of biggest concern to the
industry.
I was also able to assist on a
study that was testing the various baits used in lobster traps in order to determine
lobster preference and benefit to the lobster. The study required us to bleed 600 lobsters
from a holding warehouse. Again, I was fortunate enough to have the chance to spend time
with the principals at the facility in order to learn about the lobster industry.
Finally, I worked on a project that was trying to develop a triploid. mussel that had a larger edible percentage than a diploid one. This allowed me to talk to a number of mussel farmers, as the fiumers allowed the triploid muscle socks to be incorporated with their own. All of these research experiences gave me a diverse view of an of the opportunities available in the field of aquaculture.
The other aspect of the
externship, that proved quite interesting was the opportunity to work with and observe
wildlife. I was able to assist in the rehabilitation and nurturing of a seal and, for a
short time, a porpoise. I was able to tube and feed both mammals and I assisted in the
concerted effort to get the baby seal to feed independently.
When Dr. Daoust, a pathologist with a strong interest in wildlife, went to examine a known cormorant breeding ground in order to evaluate the colony, I accompanied him and experienced the unbelievable spectacle of so many birds in such a small geographical area. The introduction of disease would be devastating to such a population. I also assisted on a number of occasions in performing post-mortems on porpoises, seals, and a beaver.
My experience on Prince Edward Island was a unique and
special opportunity. Combining the experiences with the idyllic backdrop that the island
provides leads to an exceptional summer experience.
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