Wednesday, August 30, 2017

2017 Envirothon Recap

This year, NH sent a team from Conant High School in Jaffrey to the North American Competition, held July 23-29 in Emmitsbrug, Maryland.

This year's challenge topic was Agricultural Soil and Water Conservation Stewardship. Teams researched agricultural BMPs that would be appropriate for NH farms. They contacted the NH Conservation District office in their county to determine one or more local farms to be the focus of their study.  Using the Web Soil Survey and Granite View II, the teams mapped existing soils and land use.  They then established what BMPs are currently implemented at their focus area by interviewing the farmers responsible for implementation and maintenance of the BMPs.  Team then recommended other BMPs that could be implemented at the location to improve ecological, economic, and/or social conditions.  The recommended BMPs were required to include a cost-benefit analysis.

At the North American Competition, students took part in three jam-packed days of area tours, meals, and study sessions. All culminating in oral presentations and a final awards ceremony on Friday.

First place went to Pencrest High School in Media, Pennsylvania. Congratulations to all the teams that made it to this competition and thank you to all the teachers, volunteers and staff for your time and effort this year! Looking forward to the 2018 competition!