With an Environmental Focus, Blane Hart ’24 is All In for the Outdoors
By Judith Kelliher
Since graduating from Springfield College with a degree in Environmental Science (now Environmental Studies), Blane Hart ’24 has kept his career focus: to work in the outdoors, for the outdoors. He strives to help protect and strengthen the natural systems that people depend on for their health and well-being.
“After high school, as I started to mature and learn more about myself, I discovered a deep love for nature, its beauty, its peace, and the positive impact it has on our world,” he said. “Nature has always been a steady light in my life, something that’s been there through both the good times and the bad. It has brought benefits to me mentally, physically, and even spiritually.”
During his studies in the Environmental Science program, Hart completed a research project at the La Selva Biological Research Station in Costa Rica in 2023 with six other Springfield College students in the science-related fields. They lived in the rainforest for 10 days conducting research. Hart and his partner, Finn Katz-Cronin ’24, investigated the biodiversity (variety of animals) and abundance (how many) differences between old growth and successional (young vs. old) forest habitats. From that trip, they presented their results at the College’s Scholars in Action event, an experiential learning opportunity for undergraduate students to present their research to the campus community.
Hart is confident that the experience gained in his research project in Costa Rica was a large reason why in March 2025 he landed a job as a biologist with SOLitude Lake Management in Shrewsbury, Mass., which offers sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty, and preserve natural ecosystems.
In his job at SOLitude, Hart worked on water bodies all over New England. His main responsibility was working on a large-scale project focused on eradicating an invasive aquatic plant called hydrilla in the Connecticut River. Hart, along with a small team of fellow biologists, conducted monthly surveys from May through September, collecting data on hydrilla’s abundance and density throughout the river and its coves. The team used point-intercept survey methods, and performed water quality tests, to monitor environmental conditions. They also carried out dye to understand how water moved through the system, which helped determine whether herbicide treatments would be effective in certain areas.
“My favorite part of the job was being outdoors on the river, in a boat, surrounded by nature. I was grateful to have that as my work environment. It wasn’t always easy; some days brought rough weather, long hours, and challenging conditions,” he said. “Certain surveys were
time-sensitive due to tidal changes, which meant working late at night or very early in the morning. But no matter the obstacle, our team found a way to get the job done.”
Now entrenched in an environmental-related career, Hart believes that the field is entering an exciting and pivotal time as the world continues to move toward more sustainable practices. He notes that opportunities in areas like clean energy, restoration, and environmental justice are expanding. At the same time, though, shifting political and economic conditions have limited funding and slowed the progress of important projects, a challenge he’s witnessed firsthand.
“I’m still optimistic as green initiatives aren’t just about protecting nature. They’re also about supporting human health, strengthening communities, and building a more resilient future for everyone,” Hart said. “Nobody works harder than Springfield College students, and the College provides many resources that allow students to excel and be top candidates for their field of study. I believe Springfield College breeds leaders as you see alumni thriving in many fields.”
On Alden Street, Hart didn’t just benefit from what he learned in the classroom. As a member of the football team, he learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork, lessons which have extended beyond the field. Through football, he faced challenges, like balancing academics, athletics, and social life, as well as overcoming injuries and self-doubt to eventually accomplish individual and team goals.
“What got me through was a commitment to working hard and staying focused on who I wanted to become. Those experiences helped me grow into a stronger student, a more confident leader, and a better person,” Hart said. “I’ll always cherish the memories of the locker room, competing alongside my teammates, and winning a lot of football games together.”
