New Generation of Environmentalists: Christina Badalamenti

“Growing up on Long Island, I was always getting my hands dirty as I explored my favorite ecosystem, the wetlands in my backyard.”

Those early experiences ultimately led Christina Badalamenti to the Peconic Land Trust. Since August 2023, she has been an intern in the Conservation Planning Department. Although she might not be working outdoors each day, she is helping to conserve those places we all know and love.

Her favorite project so far has been the Wading River Farmland Initiative that her colleague Julie Wesnofske, Senior Project Manager, has been working on for over two decades. Christina added, “They are bringing back together the pieces of the Condzella’s farmland after decades of fragmentation. In the Conservation Planning Department, I like the unique puzzle of each project and getting everything to fit into place.”

Looking ahead, Christina’s considering her options for graduate programs including law school. She plans to work in a field that is environmentally adjacent, whether it’s conservation law or further non-profit or NGO work. Make sure to wish her luck on her future endeavors. Christina can be reached at CBadalamenti@PeconicLandTrust.org