Seven teams participated in the Louisiana Envirothon held on Sat., April 21 at the LSU AgCenter Burden Center in Baton Rouge.  The teams participated in an environmental educational contest that consisted of testing in aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, the current issue-nonpoint source pollution/low impact development and an oral presentation.  

The participating teams were three teams from the Audubon Zoo, three teams from the Live Oak High School Future Farmers of American and a Lake Science Lions team. 

The winners of this year’s Envirothon, each receiving a plaque and medals, were first place, Audubon Hufflelopteraptors. They won a trip to the LUMCON educational facility.  The Audubon Delegatories finished second, each winning $50. The Audubon Phloem finished in third place.

The Louisiana Envirothon is an environmental problem-solving competition for students in grades six through 12. Teams train and compete by demonstrating their knowledge of environmental science and natural resource management. The competition focuses on five natural resource areas:  soils and land use, aquatic resources, forestry, wildlife, and a current environmental issue. The 2012 current environmental issue was Nonpoint Source Pollution/Low Impact Development. Teams also present a solution to an environmental problem related to the current issue in an oral presentation. 

Louisiana Department of Ag and Forestry, Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries all participated along with many state and local sponsors. A list is available on the DEQ web site. 

“This year’s Envirothon was a great learning experience for the 35 youths who participated, as well as the many volunteers who made the event possible,” said DEQ Deputy Secretary Alex Appeaning. “I believe that we will see our next environmental leaders come from organizations that participate in events like Envirothon.” 

"Environmental education is the cornerstone of protecting our environment and public health," said DEQ Secretary Peggy Hatch. "Competitions like Envirothon allow students to have hands on experience with environmental issues and to develop the tools to be future leaders in environmental protection."

The next Louisiana Envirothon is scheduled for the Spring of 2013. All Louisiana students are invited to participate. Five students from the same school or associated with an organized group (i.e. FFA, 4-H, science club, etc...) can participate as a team. Information will be sent to science teachers and is available on the DEQ website at, www.deq.louisiana.gov/envirothon.

More From News Radio 710 KEEL