Notre équipe

Our team

Composed of individuals passionate about promoting natural environments, the team shares a love for water resources and is dedicated to protecting rivers, lakes, and wetlands, which it considers to be the treasures of the Laurentians.

Team members have a wide range of expertise in fields such as biology, environment, geography, geomatics, as well as consultation and communication. This diversity contributes to the team’s effectiveness in addressing the various water-related issues in the region in a global and complementary manner.

Mélanie LauzonB. Sc., DESS

Executive Director

Main responsibilities: Administrative management, strategic development, coordination, representation

About Mélanie

With a bachelor’s degree in Ecology from the University of Sherbrooke and a master’s degree in Project Management from ESG UQAM, Mélanie has always been motivated to contribute to projects that have a positive impact on the environment and the community.

Drawing on her professional experience in the municipal sector and in communications, she is now proud to apply her skills to integrated water management in the region where she lives.

Virginie MoncionM. Sc. biologie

Mobilization Project Coordinator

Main responsibilities: Coordination of the Consultation Table and stakeholder engagement

About Virginie

Virginie holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, with a concentration in international development, from the Université du Québec en Outaouais, as well as a master’s degree in environmental management from the Université de Sherbrooke. Her career, both in Quebec and internationally, has been marked by a strong interest in mobilizing and developing collective projects involving multiple stakeholders and communities.

As part of the team, Virginie applies her skills in facilitation, consultation, coordination, and mobilization to support integrated water management and the protection of water resources in the region.

Eric Guerra-GrenierM. Sc. biologie

Wetland Restoration Project Manager

Main responsibilities: Agri-environment, conservation and restoration, fauna and flora, geomatics

About Eric

Eric is a biologist specializing in entomology, herpetology, conservation, and evolutionary ecology. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Montreal and a master’s degree in Biology from Carleton University.

While working on the conservation of endangered species in Quebec, he discovered a strong passion for protecting wetlands and aquatic environments. A firm believer in voluntary conservation and citizen science, he chose to join the team at the Organisme de bassin versant de la rivière du Nord, drawn by its positive, collaborative approach and the opportunity to continue contributing to a healthier environment.

Marie-Belle AchkarCPI, M. Sc. A

Project Manager

Main responsibilities: Défi Eau propre, Plan de protection des sources d’eau potable, MÉRIGE, OGAT

About Marie-Belle

Marie-Belle holds a degree in Civil Engineering from the Lebanese University and a master’s degree in Water and Environmental Research from Polytechnique Montréal. Her expertise focuses on assessing urban water demand in the context of climate change and human pressures.

She has worked as a research associate and lecturer, while actively collaborating with local and regional organizations, as well as networks of young water enthusiasts. She is convinced that communication and scientific outreach are essential components of integrated water resource management.

Benafsha AmiriM. Env.

Project Manager

Main responsibilities: Plan de protection des sources d’eau potable, Programme de suivi de la qualité des cours d’eau, Châtaigne d’eau, MÉRIGE, OGAT

About Benafsha

Benafsha holds a master’s degree in Environmental Studies with a focus on Management from the University of Sherbrooke, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from UQAM. She specializes in climate change, sustainable development, and water management.

Benafsha has extensive experience in the municipal and community sectors, where she has implemented environmental plans and strategies. Highly motivated to improve the quality of life in communities, she believes it is essential to leave the natural environment in better condition than we found it.

Samuel MaechlerM. Env. Geosciences and Environment

Project Manager

Main responsibilities: Programme de suivi de la qualité des cours d’eau, Champs & Chenaux project and Wetland Restoration

About Samuel

Samuel holds a master’s degree in geosciences and environment from the University of Strasbourg in France, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Earth, Universe, and Environmental Sciences from the School and Observatory of Earth Sciences. He specializes in sustainable development, hydrology, and soil science.

His career path is guided by a deep interest in environmental issues and a desire to contribute to the sustainable management and protection of water resources and their associated ecosystems. For Samuel, taking concrete action to preserve these resources, which are essential to biodiversity and the well-being of future generations, is at the heart of his commitment.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is composed of eight members elected from among the delegates of the members. At least three of them come from the following sectors: municipal, community, and economic. In addition, a co-opted seat is available if needed, and the person holding this seat is appointed by the Board of Directors.