Trine University Student Gains Ecological Field Experience at Idaho National Laboratory
Claire Schmaltz, a Trine University student, spent her summer as an ecological crew member with Battelle Energy Alliance at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Schmaltz, who is studying environmental science and biology, applied her academic knowledge to practical field experience. Her primary project involved monitoring sage-grouse habitat across the INL site, where she collected vegetation data from 75 plots, measuring plant cover, height, density, and species composition. She also identified over 100 plant species across approximately 890 square miles of sagebrush steppe. The internship provided her with a clearer understanding of environmental careers and strengthened the connection between her studies and future goals.
