Soil Scientist, Chuck Natsuhara, shows soil sample classifications to students.

Chuck and students analyze the profile of a soil pit.

It is that time of year again, teams of high school students across Washington State are preparing for their regional Envirothon competitions! Each year, students compete in teams of five to demonstrate their knowledge in Soils, Forestry, Aquatics, Wildlife, and a current issue topic. This year’s current issue topic is Adapting to a Changing Climate. Students receive topical bonus training each year through a series of free workshops. The South Sound Region competition will be held on April 25, at Squaxin Park in Olympia.  In preparation, students have enjoyed unique opportunities to visit local organizations and universities labs to learn from environmental science professionals.   Julie Masura, a climate expert and lecturer of Geosciences from the University of Washington Tacoma, and Dr. Derek Faust, a forestry expert and lecturer of Environmental Science from Clover Park Technical College both hosted tours.  Students also visited the Bill Frank Jr. National Wildlife Refuge located in Nisqually, where they learned from retired NRCS soil scientist, Chuck Natsuhara, about the basics of soil morphology and properties.  

The winners of the regional competitions will compete at the state Envirothon, with the state winner advancing to the North American Envirothon competition. Let’s wish our teams of environmental stewards good luck at this year’s Washington State Envirothon, and happy studying as they continue to prepare for competition!  

Interested in volunteering at Regionals on April 25th? Register at South Puget Sound Regional Envirothon Volunteer Sign Up. For more information on Washington State Envirothon check out their website.