Nature Newfoundland and Labrador is a non-profit organization and registered charity promoting the enjoyment and conservation of wildlife and natural resources in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. We are this province’s oldest conservation organization (first established in 1910!) and were formerly called The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. We continue to be one of the province’s most active environmental organizations and regularly partner with other groups to raise awareness about nature and host fun and educational events that help everyone get outside.
To learn more about Nature NL, read our by-laws, annual reports, and other publications here.
We host interesting guest speakers as well as engaging outdoor events, hikes, and workshops. Monthly public talks are typically held from 7:30-9 pm on the third Thursday of the month, September through May. Our outdoor events run year round. Join us as a member to be invited to all our events.
If you enjoy our programs, we appreciate your support. Memberships help us pay for costs associated with our programs (like holding insurance, snacks, storage, training, and materials) and help us fund further interesting and important nature and conservation projects. Join us or donate today.
We’re funded by grants, donations, and your memberships! We are are our own organization and charity, and sometimes work with our national affiliate Nature Canada (formerly Canadian Nature Federation) on certain projects, or with other organizations.
Contact Information
Contact us at [email protected] or connect with us on social media:
Mailing address
Nature Newfoundland and Labrador,
21 Merrymeeting Rd.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Canada
A1C 2V6
Our staff
Steph O’Quinn
Executive DirectorStephanie holds a Bachelor of Kinesiology (BKin), and has 15+ years of experience leading projects across industries and sectors. She has conducted primary research, data collection and analysis, financial management, strategic planning, and has developed and implemented outreach and education programs that foster collaboration and measurable impact. Stephanie believes strongly in appreciating the impact wild spaces can have on our health and wellness, She is passionate about protecting wild spaces in a way that balances preservation with thoughtful, inclusive access for everyone to enjoy.
Alexis Cole
Program CoordinatorAlexis is passionate about all thing’s nature, educational environmental outreach, and citizen science. She is a Natural Resources Diploma of Technology graduate and has a background in environmental sampling. Alexis started as a volunteer with Nature Newfoundland and Labrador in 2023 and was awarded an internship (Nov. 2024 – Jan. 2025) as part of the Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador’s (CSCNL) AMPLIFY funding program. You can find Alexis hiking, gardening, and exploring beaches in her free time. If you would like to become a volunteer please reach out to Alexis at [email protected].
Catherine Scott
Insect Monitoring CoordinatorCatherine is a behavioural ecologist, natural historian, and arachnologist living in St. John’s. Catherine completed her MSc at Simon Fraser University and her PhD at the University of Toronto, where her research was focused primarily on black widow spiders. She is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at McGill University and an Honourary Postdoc at Memorial University. Catherine is passionate about spiders, insects, and other arthropods and spreading information about and enthusiasm for these fascinating animals to as many people as possible. She is currently coordinating Nature NL’s insect monitoring program and related public events. Find out more about spiders and Catherine’s research at spiderbytes.org.
Leanne Guzzwell
Environmental Education CoordinatorLeanne has a strong passion for the environment and wildlife. She earned her Master of Environmental Science in 2024, completing seabird research under Dr. Bill Montevecchi, with a focus on ecology and ornithology. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography and a Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology, specializing in early humans and human evolution. In 2014, Leanne received her certification in Wildlife Rehabilitation and Applied Animal Behaviour, and in 2016 she was awarded the Wild Things Scholarship by Nature NL for her commitment to environmental conservation. As a dedicated volunteer, Leanne has also contributed her time to the Puffin and Petrel Patrol, helping ensure the safe rescue and release of stranded seabirds.
Leanne has taught environmental science to children and youth at various environmental centers across Newfoundland and Labrador and has guest lectured in several Memorial University biology classes. As the former owner of the Little Rays Nature Centre NL franchise, she spent over 10 years travelling throughout the province with a variety of exotic animals, including reptiles, arachnids, amphibians, birds, and mammals; educating the public about wildlife and conservation.
In her free time, Leanne enjoys hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, paddleboarding, running, swimming, line dancing, going to the gym, and spending time with her six-year-old twins and pets.
Kathleen Lalor
Volunteer Nature Nook CoordinatorOriginally from Edmonton, AB, Kathleen has always loved the outdoors and wildlife. She spent her childhood summers at YMCA Camp Elphinstone on the Sunshine Coast, BC, where she explored tidal pools for tiny marine critters, watched orcas, seals, and otters from the dock, and wandered forest trails on the lookout for bears and cougars.
She studied Wildlife Biology and Conservation at the University of Guelph (2013–2017), completing independent research on growth trends of the algae species Chlorella vulgaris under changing temperatures. In 2019, she earned a course‑based Master of Wildlife Management in Dunedin, New Zealand. During her time there, she took part in several field studies, including a mark‑recapture project in a seal colony, giving seal pups “haircuts” to help estimate population size, and developed a full Restoration Plan for Mamaku Point Conservation Reserve, conducting biodiversity assessments of birds, vegetation, and skinks.
Back in Canada, Kathleen worked in conservation research at the University of Alberta and later with an environmental genomics company in St. John’s. She now works with Fisheries and Oceans Canada as a Biologist on the oil spill preparedness team (Integrated Marine Response Planning).
Since moving to Newfoundland in 2021, she has loved every moment of life on the island. She spends her free time hiking, swimming, camping, and enjoying beach fires with friends. Passionate about nature education, she hosts Nature Nook on the last Sunday of every month, where she’s always excited to chat about your favorite animals and share the bones, pelts, wings, and feet on display.
Our Board of Directors: Executive
Kris Mulcahy
PresidentKris Mulcahy brings a strong background in strategic leadership and a passion for nature and innovation. With a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Strategic Innovation Certificate, Kris has excelled in various leadership positions, including Director of Business Development at Brightisle and Executive Director of both Caregivers and Parallel Health. His experience extends to impactful roles in organizations dedicated to health and wellness, where he has spearheaded initiatives for growth, innovation, and strategic partnerships. Kris is also committed to continuous learning and development, actively engaging in opportunities that enhance his expertise in business strategy and sustainable practices. Beyond his professional life, Kris is deeply invested in outdoor activities, demonstrating a personal commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Farah McCrate
Active Past President
Thiviya Kana
Vice PresidentThiviya Kana is an environmental conservation leader with experience advancing complex, multi-year protected area initiatives. Her work spans strategic planning and cross-jurisdictional collaboration to support lasting conservation outcomes. She has contributed to leading organizations including Parks Canada, World Wildlife Fund Canada and the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas, with expertise in conservation policy, protected areas governance, species at risk and ecosystem restoration. With an M.Sc. in Integrative Biology, she combines scientific expertise with strong project leadership.
Thiviya is committed to advancing conservation that is knowledge-based, supportive of Indigenous-led stewardship, collaborative, and rooted in long-term ecological and community resilience. Beyond professional work, Thiviya is passionate about nature, writing, theatre, arts and community initiatives.
MacGregor Parent
TreasurerMacGregor (“Mac”) has always had a love for the ocean and holds a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and a Master of Marine Studies in Marine Spatial Planning and Management. Through the years Mac has fallen in love with the rugged beauty of this province and joined Nature NL in 2018 to learn more about the natural wonders the province has to offer and to help share her love of it. She is active in many of the education and outreach activities for Nature NL and manages the store. She can often be found outside hiking, biking, and running and when inside she enjoys knitting, reading, and baking.
Nabina Shrestha
SecretaryNabina Shrestha is an environmental scientist focused on sustainability, with a Master’s in
Environmental Systems Engineering and Management from Memorial University of
Newfoundland and a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science from Tribhuvan University, Nepal. She
has hands-on experience in pollution monitoring, environmental impact assessments, and
ecological fieldwork, and is dedicated to protecting ecosystems. Passionate about connecting
communities with nature, Nabina promotes conservation, fosters environmental awareness, and
supports initiatives that make a meaningful difference for people and the planet.
Our Board of Directors: members at Large
Abdul-Latif Alhassan
Member at LargeAbdul holds a Bachelors degree in Geography and Resource Development, an MA in Environmental Policy and currently pursuing his PhD in Transdisciplinary Sustainability at MUN. As a nature lover, the picturesque scenery and natural tranquility of NL makes it home for him. He likes to take a stroll in these and enjoy the beauty and wisdom of nature. Abdul brings on board a decade of project management skills and professional experience in the areas of capacity building & education, environmental impact assessment and sustainability, environmental policy and management, climate change, food security systems, and natural resource management. He is curious about how science-policy interaction, innovation, and action can be implemented to make communities and ecosystems resilient and sustainable and passionate about problem(s) solving.
Brianna Barrett
Member at LargeBrianna is a passionate environmental advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Memorial University and a certificate in Environmental Conservation from the University of Guelph. For her, nature is more than just a field of study, it is a place of peace and renewal.
She finds a deep sense of calm and happiness in the outdoors and is passionate about helping others experience that same connection. When she’s not working as an Agriculturist, you can find her birdwatching, foraging, hiking, reading, or knitting.
Salman Waheed
Member at LargeSalman holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology for Health Professionals from Memorial University of Newfoundland. While his professional interests are primarily focused on emerging fields at the intersection of Biotechnology, Science, and Business, Salman maintains a deep respect for nature and the importance of environmental stewardship. Living in Newfoundland and Labrador has further strengthened his appreciation for the region’s unique landscapes and ecosystems.
He is particularly interested in how innovation and community engagement can contribute to preserving natural environments and building a more sustainable future. Salman values opportunities to connect people with nature and supports efforts that promote environmental responsibility and long-term ecological resilience.
Rebecca Evans
Member at LargeRebecca Evans likes to frolic in the woods, paddle around on bodies of water, bake, and crochet slightly lopsided amigurumi in her spare time. She also happens to hold a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology from the University of Guelph and a Master of Science in Biology from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Originally from Southern Ontario, she is overjoyed when Newfoundlanders mistake her for being from the rock, as she’s fallen head-over-heels for the culture, people, land, and critters that make this place magical. She is passionate about connecting with nature while promoting sustainability, encouraging curiosity in others, and solving environmental challenges using multidisciplinary solutions.
Dr. Kavi Heerah
Member at LargeKavi is a postdoctoral fellow working at Memorial University to better understand the connections between the land and the coastal region. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science at the University of Guelph in 2019. He moved to the beautiful province of Newfoundland, where he completed his PhD in Environmental Science in 2026. In addition to studying the environment through a scientific lens, Kavi holds a deep love and appreciation for nature, loving hiking, paddleboarding, bird watching and taking in the gorgeous views around the coasts of Newfoundland. When inside, you can find Kavi playing D&D, reading, playing video games or watching shows.
Our People – A Short History
Meet our Past Presidents:
Laura King (2020-2022), Doug Ballam (2019-2020), Rita Anderson, Michael Collins (2010-2011). As the Newfoundland and Labrador Natural History Society: John Jacobs, John Gibson, Allan Stein, Don Steele, Len Zedel, John McConnell, Roger Burroughs, Derek Keats, F.A. Aldrich (1966), E. A. Bowring (1950), Professor Sleggs (1929)
Meet our Past Board of Directors:
Jared Clarke, Laura King, Sean McCann, Leah Crunew, Julia Sparkes, Sohil Pramij, Alison March, Jennifer Blundon, Justin So, Michael Plummer, Megan Boucher, Sara Jenkins, Dave Wilson, Brandon Hanlon, Elizabeth Dollmont, Keerthi Ashokkumar, Michelle Fitzsimmons, Jennifer Sullivan, Tiffany Small, Arielle Przybysz, Nick White, Marjorie Evans, Emma Bocking, Liz Andres, Anne Storey, Allan Stein, Paul Regular, Chantelle Burke, Margie McMillan, Carolyn Walsh, John Gibson, Dave Snow, Len Zedel, Glen Ryan, Kim Bell, Rick Ballard, Andrea Procter, Julie Huntington, Raoul Andersen, Jennifer Higgins, Stephanie Porter, Reade Davis, Ed Hayden, and many, many more
Meet our Past Staff, Interns, & Contractors:
Tristin Clarke (2025, Field and programs assistant), Marie Louise Aastrup (2021-2025, Executive Director), Lorna Quiroga (2024, Conservation Intern), Abbie Mullins (2024, Entomology Intern in collaboration with The Rooms), Brianna Barret (2023 -2024 NatureHood Coordinator & Events Coordinator), Amber Haden (2024 CCC/CWF Intern), Kayla Fisher (2023-2024 Programs Coordinator), Mercia Conway Harris (2023-2024, Volunteer & Events Coordinator), Sarah Wilkins (2019-2020, Climate Change Communication), Elizabeth Andres (2016, Connecting New Canadians with Nature in collaboration with the Association for New Canadians), Nailisa Tanner (2010-2011, YMCA Eco Intern in collaboration with Memorial University, co-sponsored by The Outfitters), Rosalind Ford (2011, Important Bird Areas), Julie Huntington (2012, Growing Health project)