Department of Environmental Science & Technology - University of Maryland

Ever wondered why PFAS are called “forever chemicals”? 💧

These widely used chemicals can persist in the environment for a long time and have been found in products such as nonstick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics, water-resistant clothing, cosmetics, and firefighting foam.

Because PFAS can move through water, soil, food systems, and ecosystems, researchers continue to study their environmental and human health impacts.

Swipe through to learn what PFAS are, where they’re found, how exposure can happen, and why this research matters. 🌱

🌊 Look who we ran into near National Harbor—ENST student Amy Lee!

This summer, Amy is volunteering with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network, helping collect water quality data to monitor and assess the health of the Potomac River.

The PRKN boat serves as a floating mobile laboratory, where samples collected across the watershed are processed and data is tracked to help identify potential sources of pollution. PRKN is also leading a pilot program focused on increasing freshwater mussel populations in the river—an important step toward supporting a healthier aquatic ecosystem.

Stay tuned during the coming academic year for more volunteer opportunities with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network!

📍 Potomac River
🔬 Water quality monitoring
🐚 Freshwater mussel restoration
💧 Hands-on environmental experience

Potomac Riverkeeper Network

Plan ahead for future research and professional development opportunities 🌿✈️

The Dr. David F. Ludwig Memorial Student Travel Scholarship supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing ecology-related research.

The award provides up to $1,000 per student to help cover eligible research travel, conference registration or travel to present research, and professional development expenses.

Preference is given to students conducting or presenting ecology-related research. ENST students, especially those in the AENR concentration, may find this opportunity particularly relevant.

The deadline for the 2026 cycle has passed, but students are encouraged to save this opportunity and prepare for a future application cycle.

Learn more: aehsfoundation.org/drdavid

NOAA Hollings Scholarship 🌊🐬

A great opportunity for ENST undergraduates interested in environmental science, oceanic and atmospheric science, research, policy, technology, and education.

The Hollings Scholarship provides:
• Up to $9,500 per year for 2 years
• A 10-week paid summer internship at a NOAA facility
• $700/week during the summer internship
• Travel support for orientation and the Science & Education Symposium

Eligibility
✔️U.S. citizens
✔️Sophomores in a 4-year undergraduate program
✔️GPA of 3.0 or higher
✔️Majors related to NOAA mission fields

Eligible fields may include environmental, oceanic, atmospheric, and biological sciences, as well as math, engineering, remote sensing, physical and social sciences, geography, hydrology, geomatics, and teacher education.

ENST students have received this scholarship in the past!🌎

To learn more about the NOAA Hollings Scholarship, visit:
https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/hollings-scholarship

To complete the brief UMD questionnaire, click the link in our bio or visit:
[https://umdsurvey.umd.edu/jfe/form/SV_3sBQRwC1wDbwt81]

🔗 Questions? Contact the UMD scholarship office at:
[email protected]

Looking for a peaceful summer outing near campus? 🌿

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is only about 15 minutes from UMD and is a beautiful place to visit with friends, family, or visiting parents. Located along the Anacostia River and managed by the National Park Service, the gardens are home to stunning water lilies, lotus flowers, wetlands, and wildlife.

The best part? It’s free to visit — and the lotus and water lilies are in peak bloom during July. 🌸

Save this spot for your next summer walk!☘️

Stay hydrated, ENST! 💧🌿
These hot summer days can be intense, so make sure you’re drinking enough water.

Not a fan of plain water? Add fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs to make it more flavorful — lemon, cucumber, mint, berries, or orange slices are great options. 🍋🥒🍓

A simple reminder on your phone can help you keep sipping throughout the day!