May 29, 2026| Environment, People
By: Donna Macalle-Holly
As I conclude my final blog post for the Lake Hopatcong Foundation and transition into the next phase of my life, I’m grateful to be writing about something so full of promise: the arrival of two talented Environmental Stewardship Interns, Faith Bulger and Millena Galatioto. Their work is made possible through the generosity of the Alice C. Tyler Perpetual Trust, whose support strengthens the Lake Hopatcong Stewardship: Science, Education & Community Impact project, helping advance water quality research, environmental education, and community engagement across the watershed.
Faith and Millena are beginning a summer of hands‑on science, fieldwork, and community engagement. They will spend time on the water, identifying native and invasive plants for an aquatic plant study, and helping track ecological trends across the lake. They’ll also step into the world of eDNA sampling—a modern, detective‑style method for identifying species that may be present even when they can’t be seen.
They'll also be assisting with our educational field trip program, helping students discover macroinvertebrates and learn what these small creatures can tell us about water quality in the Musconetcong River.
A major part of their role will also involve supporting the Lake-Friendly Living Program, where they’ll connect with residents about simple, practical steps that protect water quality. From shoreline care to stormwater awareness, they’ll help neighbors understand how everyday choices contribute to a healthier lake. More details on how to get involved will be shared soon.
It’s a summer that will blend science, stewardship, and community connection—an ideal experience for emerging environmental professionals.
If you’d like to welcome them in person, you’ll have the chance at the Lake Hopatcong Antique & Classic Boat Society Boat Show on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club, Mount Arlington. Stop by the Foundation’s table to say hello, learn about their work, and help them feel at home in our lake community.
Faith Bulger:Faith is a Montclair State University graduate with a degree in Biology and a minor in Sustainability Science. Her research experience spans marine biology, microbiology, and undergraduate symposium presentations. This fall, she’ll begin her master’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Montclair State.
She previously worked as a Conservation Educator at Sedge Island with the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife, where she discovered how much she enjoys helping people connect with nature. She’s looking forward to bringing that same enthusiasm to Lake Hopatcong.
Millena Galatioto:Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Millena has called the Lake Hopatcong area home since 2022. She’s now a senior Biology major at East Stroudsburg University with a wide range of research experience—from geophysics at Rutgers University to fieldwork in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, as well as post‑wildfire forest restoration research in Arizona.
Her current independent research focuses on how soil microplastics affect plant–fungi relationships. She’s excited to combine her scientific interests with her love for the lake community this summer.
