Bella Iñigo-Payne
Email: isabella.inigo-payne@uvm.edu
LCSG Communications Assistant
Bella Iñigo-Payne started in October 2026 as a Communications Assistant for Lake Champlain Sea Grant. A sophomore at the University of Vermont, she is pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Wildlife Biology. Originally from Ithaca, New York, Bella is passionate about the natural world and enjoys connecting people with the environment. In her free time, she can often be found hiking, birding, crafting, listening to music, or trying new recipes in the kitchen.
Nate McPeak
Email: nmcpeak@uvm.edu
Marine Debris Program Assistant
Nate is a junior at the University of Vermont studying Wildlife and Fisheries Biology. This summer, he is working with the Lake Champlain Basin Marine Debris Coalition to reduce Styrofoam pollution in the lake and surrounding surface waters. Outside of his internship, Nate enjoys birding, hiking, and playing the banjo–and has recently taken up fly fishing!
Previous Interns
Clara Marotta
Email: cmarotta@uvm.edu
Lake Champlain Sea Grant Program Assistant
Clara is a senior at the University of Vermont majoring in Environmental Science with a minor in Geospatial Technologies. This summer, she is conducting BLUE BTV stormwater site assessments throughout Burlington, working directly with residents to identify opportunities for improving stormwater management and recommending best management practices for their properties. Clara will also be stationed along the Island Line Causeway, where she hosts Little Lake Lessons, an educational program that engages visitors from across the country in learning about watersheds, water quality, and the importance of protecting Lake Champlain. Outside of work, Clara loves to play spikeball, swim at North Beach, and find new hiking spots.
Mia Kalish
Email: mianoblekalish@gmail.com
Green Infrastructure Collaborative Program Assistant
Mia earned her B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Vermont’s Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources in May 2026. This summer, she is supporting the Green Infrastructure Collaborative by analyzing data in ArcGIS, developing a system for real-time verification updates, refreshing program StoryMaps, and assisting with communications efforts. She is also contributing to the BLUE Stormwater Program by evaluating clean water project sites and participating in site visits.
Outside of work, Mia enjoys gardening, reading, running, and swimming in Lake Champlain.