Introduction

WHAT ? Envirothon is a natural resource based environmental education program for high school students. In the field, teams of students are challenged to use critical thinking and problem solving skills. They answer written questions and conduct hands-on investigation of environmental issues in five categories - Soils, Aquatics, Forestry, Wildlife, and a current environmental issue.

WHY ? Envirothon stimulates, reinforces, and enhances interest in the environment and Connecticut's natural resources. It was designed to incorporate more hands-on environmental education into the high school science curriculum. As the leading environmental program for high school students, Envirothon affords a unique approach to teaching environmental education, and it's fun!

HOW ? Preparation begins with an orientation for Envirothon advisors where they receive their resource materials. These are carefully selected from the latest and best in publications and other media. Most teachers find the Envirothon curriculum a wonderful enrichment source for all science students, not just the team members. To complement the currriculum material, workshops are held throughout the school year to acquaint students with real-life applications of the issues. Teams can also invite resource professionals as mentors to provide individual training. Conservation Districts in conjunction with volunteers from a host of cooperating agencies and groups conduct the field competition in the spring. The winning team represents Connecticut at the national Envirothon event. The program is directed by an all volunteer Steering Committee made up of representatives from local Conservation Districts, various state and federal agencies and corporate sponsors.

WHEN AND WHERE? The Connecticut Envirothon competition is held at a nature center, wildlife preserve, camp or other outdoor facility usually the third week in May.

PROGRAM GOALS Connecticut Envirothon was created to: • Promote a true stewardship ethic and ownership of our natural resources • Foster the widespread acceptance of an environmental studies curriculum in high school • Develop students' critical thinking, cooperative problem solving, and decision-making skills • Present balanced options for management of our renewable and nonrenewable natural resources • Provide awareness of and accessibility to resource organizations offering assistance in environmental issues.

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