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First-ever Area II Jr. Envirothon

The Area II Jr. Envirothon was held for the first year at Prairie Wetlands Learning Center near Fergus Falls on Thursday October 2, 2008. We had an outstanding turnout for the first year. 24 teams from the following schools participated: Fergus Falls, Hillcrest Academy near Fergus Falls, Lake Park Audubon, St. Mary’s near Breckenridge, and Ashby. The students were from 6th to 8th grades. Grant County had an excellent showing with the entire 6th, 7th and 8th grade students from Ashby competing.

The event was modeled after the Envirothon for 9-12th grade students, which we have had at an Area level since 1994. With the Jr. Envirothon, the students had five learning stations and were tested on the following areas: wetlands, wildlife, forestry, soils and the current issue “Impact of Recreation on Natural Resources.”

The winners for 2008, placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd, were all from Fergus Falls Public Schools. They were very excited and have plans to attend again next year. Special thanks to our sponsors, the Area II SWCDs and the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts.