Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Presentations
Timeline
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Madeline Behrens

Chaska

Summary

Dynamic water resources professional with hands-on experience at Carver County, excelling in field mapping and data analysis. Proven ability to lead aquatic species surveys and enhance water quality assessments. Strong organizational skills and effective communication foster collaboration and drive impactful environmental initiatives. Committed to promoting sustainable practices and community awareness.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Water Resources Intern

Carver County
Chaska
05.2025 - Current
  • Monitored lakes, rivers, and wetlands across 320 square miles, spanning six watersheds.
  • Directed comprehensive aquatic species surveys to identify invasive species hotspots, enabling targeted treatment and removal.
  • Verified the presence of terrestrial invasive species and coordinated appropriate, targeted removal.
  • Analyzed multi-year ecological datasets and created GIS-based heatmaps to track species distribution trends to inform restoration planning.
  • Prepared project presentations and reports to assist senior staff.

Environmental Lab Assistant

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh
09.2024 - 05.2025
  • Conducted water quality analyses in compliance with Wisconsin DNR standards at a state-certified environmental testing facility.
  • Operated and maintained analytical instruments for testing contaminants, including nitrates, arsenic, lead, E. coli, and total coliforms.
  • Utilized LabWare LIMS for data entry, tracking, and report generation.
  • Ensured quality control through precise documentation and adherence to QA/QC procedures.
  • Handled hazardous materials responsibly, following proper waste disposal procedures to minimize environmental impact.

Algae Bloom Student Researcher

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh
06.2024 - 09.2024
  • Collaborated across six university departments to study the ecological and public health impacts of harmful algal blooms (HABs).
  • Collected and processed environmental samples weekly from nine monitoring sites to generate water quality trends.
  • Identified eight primary species of cyanobacteria to inform correlations with their effects on water quality.
  • Facilitated public outreach and education to raise awareness of HAB risks, and promote preventative strategies within the local community.

Water Quality Monitoring Intern

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh
05.2023 - 09.2023
  • Partnered with the Door County Soil and Water Conservation Department to assess stream water quality.
  • Supported the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative by removing 7,421 lbs of marine debris from Lake Michigan.
  • Performed routine sampling and quantified coliform bacteria levels using MPN methods to ensure compliance with water quality standards.
  • Reported findings to the Wisconsin DNR, and directed beach advisory and closure decisions.

Receptionist

Minnesota State University Mankato
Mankato
08.2021 - 05.2023
  • Managed a multi-line phone system, directing individuals to the desired personnel across 22 campus buildings.
  • Resolved client and visitor concerns promptly by identifying issues, providing accurate information, or directing them to the appropriate department.
  • Supported administrative tasks, including data entry, document preparation, and filing (electronic and paper).
  • Greeted and assisted visitors, clients, and vendors in a professional and friendly manner.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI
05.2025

Skills

  • Field mapping and surveys
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • Analytical instrument operation
  • Sample collection and preparation
  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Water quality assessment
  • Quality assurance and control
  • Organizational skills
  • Time management techniques
  • Effective communication
  • Adaptability in dynamic environments
  • Leadership capabilities

Presentations

A Regional Approach to Marine Debris Removal in Northern Lake Michigan: Effective methods of marine debris cleanup in Lake Michigan (Oct 2023)

Timeline

Water Resources Intern

Carver County
05.2025 - Current

Environmental Lab Assistant

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
09.2024 - 05.2025

Algae Bloom Student Researcher

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
06.2024 - 09.2024

Water Quality Monitoring Intern

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
05.2023 - 09.2023

Receptionist

Minnesota State University Mankato
08.2021 - 05.2023

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

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Madeline Behrens