Reviews Archives | Woodland Woman

David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet

November 30, 2020

I had high hopes for David Attenborough's new film, A Life On Our Planet, and still it exceeded my expectations.

Outdoor Adventure Podcasts to Tune Into

September 8, 2020

I'm a big fan of outdoor adventure podcasts. They keep me company on long drives and sleepless nights, and provide inspiration for my own excursions. Here's a few of my favourites with episode links.

7 Lessons from Justin Barbour’s Man and Dog: Through the Newfoundland Wilderness

May 7, 2020

I just finished reading Justin Barbour’s Man and Dog: Through the Newfoundland Wilderness and it's a fantastic book! It’s a great story and the book is packed with helpful lessons about backcountry travel.

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Writer & Researcher

Hello & Welcome!

My name is Jenna. I’m a writer, researcher, and photographer based in Ottawa, Ontario.

I started this blog to write about my outdoor adventures, wildlife, and issues in conservation. My hope is that it inspires you to get outside and create your own adventures.

Instagram: jen.amirault
Email: jen at woodlandwoman.ca

⁣⁣“Say No to Shale Gas”⠀ “Disons non a $⁣⁣“Say No to Shale Gas”⠀ “Disons non au gaz de schiste”⠀ In 2005, the NB Media Coop reported concerns from locals about the health effects of shale gas developments (hydraulic fracturing/fracking) on the Richibucto River.⠀ ⠀ If you haven’t heard about fracking, some of the concerns include groundwater and soil contamination, exposure to toxic chemicals, air pollution, and the drainage of local water resources.⠀ ⠀ New evidence shows that fracking is linked to high-risk pregnancies, low birth weight, and less healthy babies. It is also linked to asthma, migraines, headaches, and skin disorders.⠀ ⠀ A 2011 study, showed that more than 75 percent of the “chemicals [used in natural gas operations] could affect the skin, eyes, and other sensory organs, and respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Approximately 40-50% could affect the brain/nervous system, immune and cardiovascular systems, and the kidneys; 37% could affect the endocrine system; and 25% could cause cancer and mutations.”⠀ ⠀ With all that said, CBC reports, that “New Brunswick handed out 1.4 million hectares of land – one-seventh of the province – to shale gas exploration” in 2010.⠀ ⠀ Fearing both the environmental and health effects of fracking in their community, Elsipogtog First Nation have protested gas exploration in their territory. In 2013, they set up a blockade to put a stop to testing.⠀ ⠀ In response, the police were sent in with sniper rifles, dogs, tear-gas and rubber bullets. Concerns have since been raised about the use of force, surveillance tactics, and disregard of treaty rights during these events. In 2020, the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission released its report which documents how police acted illegally at the anti-shale protests.⠀ ⠀ Despite all of this, the fight against fracking is ongoing in New Brunswick. Last June, Premier Blaine Higgs passed regulatory changes that would allow fracking in the Sussex area.⠀ ⠀ (Caption continues in the comments section)$