Rachel Darvill

Rachel Darvill is a Registered Professional Biologist with over 25 years of experience in conservation biology, wildlife research, and environmental project design and management. Based in southeastern British Columbia, Canada, she specializes in avian ecology, species-at-
risk recovery, and ecosystem monitoring with a strong emphasis on community-based science and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

Rachel has been the founder and lead biologist of several projects including the Upper Columbia Swallow Habitat Enhancement Project and the Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey, both multi-year projects that have gathered vital baseline data for migratory and resident bird populations within one of North America’s most significant wetland ecosystems. Her work bridges rigorous scientific methodology with accessible outreach, making her a trusted voice in environmental stewardship throughout the Columbia Basin and beyond.

In addition to her field expertise, Rachel has worked with a wide range of governmental and non-profit organizations, including Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Columbia Wetlands Stewardship Partners, Kootenay Connect, Wildsight, BC Parks, and local Indigenous
communities. She is deeply committed to ecosystem conservation and knowledge-sharing, regularly contributing to regional conservation strategies, scientific publications, and public education efforts. Rachel and her team have significantly advanced species-at-risk conservation
in the Columbia Valley, providing valuable data and strategies for habitat protection and species
recovery.

When not in the field, Rachel mentors aspiring biologists, supports conservation planning, and engages the public in citizen science initiatives that aim to protect biodiversity in the Columbia Valley and beyond. She is also an avid outdoor enthusiast, wildlife photographer, mom, and gardener.