The Envirothon NB program, organized by the Canadian Woodlands Forum, continues to be a leader in natural resource / environmental education and experiential learning for middle and high school students across New Brunswick. With strong support from the Provincial Steering Committee—many of whom have been involved since the program’s inception in 2001—Envirothon NB thrives through partnerships with the NB Environmental Trust Fund, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD), school districts, and numerous organizations and individuals committed to youth environmental education.
Envirothon NB provides students with:
Envirothon NB also supports teachers and educators by providing:
The 2024 Envirothon NB program consisted of three main components:
1. School-Based Learning
Aligned with the EECD Science curriculum, Envirothon NB was integrated into Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Geoscience, Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Forestry courses. Many schools engaged students through weekly Envirothon clubs, while others incorporated materials into classroom lessons. Teachers have access to structured lessons and activities on the Envirothon NB website, increasing student engagement and enriching environmental science education.
2. Workshops and Field Trips
Envirothon NB hosted a series of hands-on workshops and field trips throughout the year to prepare students for the annual competition:
3. Provincial and International Competitions
The 2024 Envirothon NB competition took place from May 4-6 at Mount Allison University, with 11 teams, 55 students, 14 teachers, and 29 volunteers/judges participating. Among them was one middle school team from Stanley Consolidated School and a guest team from Prince Edward Island competing in a practice capacity.
Students were tested on Wildlife, Forestry, Aquatics, and Soils and Land Use at the Ducks Unlimited wetlands park behind Tantramar Regional High School. Field tests for each topic challenged the teams with species identification, critical thinking questions about environmental sustainability, best management practices, regulations, invasive species and climate adaption. They also tackled the 2024 current environmental issue scenario, “Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future,” developing solutions to address an electricity gap facing New Brunswick. Given seven weeks to prepare, students conducted research, planned solutions, and honed their presentation skills before the final event.
The Champion Team from Leo Hayes High School represented New Brunswick for the third consecutive year at the 2024 International NCF-Envirothon in Geneva, NY, from July 26 to August 3. Competing against 49 teams from the U.S., Canada, China, and Singapore, the NB team placed 29th overall. They participated in field tests, training workshops, presentations, and cultural exchange activities, including a trip to Niagara Falls, NY.
Several members of the team are now pursuing higher education in forestry, political science, science, and engineering and have expressed interest in returning as future Envirothon NB volunteers.
In the fall of 2024, the Provincial Steering Committee reviewed the year’s successes and challenges and began preparations for the 25th Anniversary Envirothon NB Competition, scheduled for May 3-5, 2025, at Mount Allison University. With enhanced resources, outreach, and program initiatives, Envirothon NB aims to make the anniversary year a truly memorable and impactful experience.
“I highly recommend! The experience of the field tests, Mount Allison University, spending time with friends, and presenting something you worked hard on all year is well worth it!” — Grade 12 Student
“When we were given the case study (scenario), it forced me to do a lot of research on areas affected by climate change I had not even considered.”— Grade 11 Student
“I have realized how important and relevant climate change, and the environment is to myself and the world.” — Grade 9 Student
“The overall time I spent/dedicated to Envirothon enhanced my perspective. I want to pursue a career as a wildlife biologist. This program was very beneficial to me.”
— Grade 10 Student, 2024
“Envirothon NB provided me with opportunities to learn about the environment through experiences, helped improve my communication skills, travel, and meet new friends!” — Grade 12 Student, Team NB 2024
Envirothon NB continues to inspire and educate the next generation of environmental leaders. With strong partnerships and a commitment to hands-on learning, the program remains a vital part of environmental education in New Brunswick. We look forward to another successful year in 2025 as we celebrate 25 years of Envirothon NB!
A huge thank you the New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund for their continued support.
The Canadian Woodlands Forum, (CWF), is a not-for-profit membership-based organization recognized for its commitment to effective, quality woodlands operations in support of sustainable forest management.