Sarah Zack is joining the IISG pollution prevention team as its new extension specialist.

She will be integrating program leadership, and public engagement and developing extension and outreach activities for the pollution prevention programs, especially related to management of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in the environment, microplastics pollution in the Great Lakes, and other emerging contaminants of concern.

For the past five years, Zack has worked in IISG’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) program and was instrumental in developing the Be A Hero-Transport Zero™ campaign. She also researched AIS best management practices for fishing tournament anglers and organizers.

“I’m very excited to begin my new role with IISG, and to work with some of you in new ways,” Zack said. “This is a great group to work with, and I’m thrilled to be able to take on a new challenge while still staying a part of IISG.”

Zack has a Master’s degree in biology with an emphasis on aquatic ecology from Loyola University Chicago.

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The IISG program, in cooperation with the @nationalparkservice at @indianadunesnps and @UrbanRivers in Chicago, is offering two internship opportunities to support conservation policy efforts. Sea Grant’s national Community Engaged Internship (CEI) program aims to broaden participation in coastal, ocean, Great Lakes, and marine sciences providing training and mentorship to the next generation of scientists, decision-makers, and citizens. The program will do so by recruiting, retaining and engaging students in place-based research, extension, education, and/or communication that respects and integrates local ways of knowing.Applications due March 17.Learn more at the link in bio.
Happy International Women’s Day! A special thank you to the incredible members of our IISG community who inspire, lead, and drive change every day. 🎉
It’s almost our favorite time of the year...Rain Garden Rumble!This will be our 6th annual competition where 28 native plant species go head-to-head (or bloom-to-bloom?) in a fierce competition. But the best part? YOU determine who is crowned champion.There are a few ways to participate. First, fill out a bracket* (steps below). Then, vote in our daily Instagram polls or Facebook posts from March 18th through April 4th. The person who submits the most accurate bracket wins a sweet set of Illinois Extension "rain-care" merch (an umbrella and rain gauge)!👀*You do NOT have to fill out a bracket to vote in the polls!1. Click the link in our bio to open our official blog with more information regarding the event.2. Scroll down and click our bracket.3. In the tab that pops up, click the “download” icon.4. Fill it out with your picks and save the document. Please include your name! Note that you can learn more about the plants by clicking their names in the bracket.5. Submit your completed bracket to RedOakRainGarden@illinois.edu by Monday, March 17. Matches begin the following day on Facebook and Instagram.May the best plant win...🌿🏆#RainGardenRumble2025
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