Prairie Rivers Network is proud to have partnered with the UIC Freshwater Lab for the past three years in hosting a summer intern. The Freshwater Lab is doing incredibly important work in raising the next generation of environmental advocates. We strongly encourage you to learn more about the Freshwater Lab and its internship program.
This year’s intern was Sam Cangelosi, UIC class of 2022, who is pursuing a BA in History with a minor in Environmental Science. As part of the internship, Sam researched regulations on neonicotinoid pesticides, with a particular focus on the disposal methods for seeds treated with neonicotinoids. You can read Sam’s in-depth overview covering neonicotinoids, their impacts on pollinators, and the lack of effective regulations on these toxic pesticides here. We were so appreciative not only for the great work that Sam produced for PRN’s agriculture team this summer, but also for the enthusiasm and creativity with which he approached his responsibilities. Thank you Sam. We wish you all the best!
Hi, my name is Sam. I am currently a senior at The University of Illinois at Chicago studying environmental history and environmental science. My studies focus on environmental remediation in agriculture and water through organic and biological processes. My interest in the field stems from a trip to Starved Rock State Park, where I was looking forward to jumping into the Illinois River after a long hike.
Unfortunately, when I reached the edge of the river, I found it blocked off and swimming prohibited due to algal blooms affecting that stretch of the river. Further research led me to realize this was primarily due to excess nitrogen being dumped into the river as a byproduct of the agriculture in the area. My interests in all things agriculture have since expanded dramatically, and I look forward to one day taking on a regenerative agriculture practice and educating people about sustainable techniques.
