2023 Envirothon Annual Competition
The 31st Annual California Envirothon competition was held on April 15, 2023, at the Wind Wolves Preserve in Bakersfield, California. The event was hosted by the Wildlands Conservancy. The theme of the 2023 competition was Adapting to a Changing Climate. The event drew four high schools and ten student teams from the Los Angeles and San Diego area.
The competition tests youth on their knowledge relating to the topics of soil, forestry, wildlife, and aquatic ecosystems. All teams must also provide an oral presentation. Their presentation needs to address problem solving a scenario related to the current theme before a panel of judges and technical advisors.
The 2023 winning team was Bladderpod Squad from Palisades Charter High School in Pacific Palisades, California.
Steve Engelmann, team teacher advisor, has a long commitment to the CAE competition. The Bladderpod Squad will advance to the National Conservation Foundation’s International Envirothon located in Tantramar at Mount Allison University, New Brunswick, Canada, from July 23–29, 2023.
The success of the Envirothon event would not be possible without the dedicated support of the NRCS volunteers made up of soil scientists, soil conservationists, ag engineer/hydrologist, and biologists.
Many additional staff and leaders also contributed and volunteered their individual technical expertise and ideas. Their knowledge impacted the students’ experience by preparing and inspiring them. Everyone involved were grateful for their enthusiasm, services, and collaboration.
When asked, “What do you feel your students gained from this competition that will impact conservation?” Engelmann replied, “As a teacher, I think my students got a peek inside the complex relationship between individuals, communities, industries small and large, and the government. Each stakeholder group has a unique perspective on conservation and the most sustainable solutions require a conversation with all members.”
