WHAT IS THE ENVIROTHON
The New Jersey Envirothon competition is a one-day event that takes place near the end of the school year. Teams will be tested on environmental topics through hands-on interactive problem-solving at five testing stations. Test questions may cover any information in the study guide and suggested resource materials or web links. The contest will consist of hands-on questions along with some true/false, multiple choice and fill-in-the-blanks. There will be 30 minutes allowed at each station. Team presentations will last 10 minutes.
The team that best demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of natural resources, as well as teamwork and communication skills, moves on to represent New Jersey in the North American Envirothon competition which is the Largest High School Environmental Education Competition. This multi-day event further tests the team's understanding of the environment and involves teams from all regions of the United States and Canada.
The Envirothon is a dynamic hands-on Environmental Education Program for high school students. Teams of students who wish to compete in the state-level Envirothon competition explore different natural resource related topics throughout the school year, including SOILS, FORESTRY, AQUATICS, WILDLIFE ECOLOGY and CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES. As they strengthen their background in natural resources, students practice working in teams, considering information and differing viewpoints to reach a decision through consensus and teamwork. One of the purposes of this program is to encourage students to become better-informed, active participants in natural resource management and problem-solving`.
Each year the Envirothon features a specific, current environmental issue. The 2013 Environmental issue will be based on the North American Envirothon theme with a New Jersey twist "SUSTAINABLE RANGELAND MANAGEMENT ACHIEVING A BALANCE BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL USES WITH NON-AGRICULTURAL USES ON MONTANA RANGELANDS".
The team advisor or "coach" facilitates team preparation for the competition. The Envirothon sponsors offer training and study guides for this preparation. Organized training sessions give students the opportunity to meet a wide range of professionals working in environment related fields. Hands-on activities outlined in the educational study guide acquaint students with the Envirothon testing format.
The online study guide can also be used to supplement regular lesson plans. Preparation for the Envirothon will help teachers meet New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in Language, Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies.
For more information about the Envirothon, contact Richard Belcher, Envirothon Coordinator or your local Soil Conservation District.