Environment and Land Office
ODANAK ENVIRONMENT & LAND OFFICE
Description and Mission
The Odanak Environment and Land Office (BETO; Mziaow8gan ta Aki) began operations in 2007 and has since worked on numerous projects related to the environment and land management. Over the years, we have developed diverse expertise that allows us to better respond to the needs and interests of the community.
BETO’s main mandate is to provide quality services to the members of Odanak. Our team includes people who can answer your questions and address your needs regarding land management in the territory. We also work in partnership with W8banaki to promote the interests of the W8banaki Nation with numerous organizations (Priority Intervention Zone Committees, Regional Wildlife Tables, other Indigenous communities, governments, industries, etc.). We also frequently participate in or organize various outreach and discovery activities within the community in the field of the environment (community fishing, scientific activities, community events, etc.). Finally, a key element of BETO is to improve knowledge and management of our Mother Earth (wildlife, flora, water, land, etc.).
Since its creation, BETO has focused on carrying out its mandate through a variety of well-defined projects. Over the years, we have developed numerous initiatives aimed at protecting species at risk found within the territory, including research on lake sturgeon, habitat enhancement for yellow perch, and habitat improvement for snowshoe hare (see the other sections of this website).
Waste management, community outreach activities, and personalized environmental services are also key components of the work we carry out on a regular basis.
Needless to say, accomplishing this work requires a multidisciplinary team. That is why the BETO team includes a land manager, biologists, technicians, field assistants, and students. Whenever possible, we prioritize hiring and training members of the Odanak community. These employment opportunities in the environmental sector help develop skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate professionals.
BETO is a department of the Abenakis Council of Odanak and operates primarily through external funding. With the ongoing support of the Council, the projects we undertake enable us to fulfill our mandate throughout the year.
Our principal funding sources include the Indigenous Fund for Species at Risk, the Fondation de la faune du Québec, the Community Interaction Program, and the Waste Management Initiative. Many other organizations also contribute, directly or indirectly, to the success and continued operation of our organization.
OUR TEAM'S ROLES
Jennifer L.-Vollant
Land Manager and Emergency Measures Officer
Luc G. Nolett
Team Leader - Environment and Land
Samuel Dufour
Manager - Environment and Land
émile gariépy
Environmental Project Manager
Théo Allart
Environmental Project Manager
stéphanie harnois
Project and administrative support coordinator (on maternity leave)
évelyne benedict
Field Assistant
cathy duguay
Project Manager - Environment and Land