The Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts sponsors the Kentucky Envirothon competition in an effort to educate students about our natural world and encourage them to become environmentally aware, action-oriented citizens. The competition is geared for students in grades nine through 12 and covers various topics including forestry, wildlife, aquatics, soils and a current environmental issue. Kentucky's competition is held in the spring each year and the winning team, along with adult advisors, compete in the National Canon Envirothon competition in the summer. Travel expenses and accommodations for the winning team are paid for by the Kentucky Envirothon Committee. If you would like your school to compete in the next Envirothon, contact your local conservation district office or call the Kentucky Division of Conservation at 502-564-2320.
Forestry Component of Envirothon
Forestry is one of five subjects highlighted in the Envirothon competition. Although the event is competitive, education is the bottom line. Foresters, biologists and other resource professionals work with the students to help them prepare for the competition. To arrange for a resource professional to work with your team on the forestry component of the competition, contact any of the following agencies:
To prepare for the forestry component, students should learn the basics of forest management and the specific forest ecosystems of Kentucky. Tree identification, using a compass, pacing and knowing how to use a Biltmore stick are key components of Kentucky's test. Here are a few study guides: