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TEAM WISCONSIN TRAVELS TO NCF-ENVIROTHON
from The Field Note
TEAM WISCONSIN TRAVELS TO NCF-ENVIROTHON
A team's journey from a state victory to the national stage, proves that a love for the environment can take you far.
In an impressive display of environmental knowledge and teamwork, Cedarburg High School emerged victorious at the 2024 WI Envirothon competition held this April at the Lions Camp in Rosholt. With the guidance of their dedicated teacher Katie Schlicht, who serves as both a Science Teacher and Co-Advisor of the CHS Environmental Club, the team’s hard work and passion led them to take the title of overall winner at their first competition.
Their victory at the state level opened the door to an even greater adventure. The Cedarburg team earned the honor of representing Wisconsin at the National Conservation Foundation Envirothon, held in July at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York. This marked their debut on the international stage, and the excitement built as they prepared to compete against teams from across the United States, Canada, and beyond.
The NCF-Envirothon kicked off with a grand opening ceremony, where state flags were proudly presented. This was followed by the lively trading session and a delightful ice cream social. These events set the tone for a week filled with exciting competition and newfound friendships. Over the next days, the Cedarburg team found themselves immersed in interactive testing courses, showcasing their expertise at four outdoor stations: Wildlife, Forestry, Aquatics, and Soils.
Drawing upon a year’s worth of research and preparation, the Wisconsin team also delivered a compelling 20-minute presentation on a real-world energy issue. Their focus on this year’s Current Issue, “Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future,” demonstrated not only their teamwork skills but also their ability to address some of our most pressing resource concerns.
Amid the rigorous competition, the team found time for an unforgettable excursion to Niagara Falls State Park. The highlight of this adventure was undoubtedly the boat ride on the Maid of the Mist, where they experienced the power and beauty of the iconic falls up close. This breathtaking encounter with nature served as a poignant reminder of why their work in environmental stewardship is so crucial.
As the Cedarburg High School team reflects on the following pages, their journey from firsttime state competitors to national representatives, stands as an inspiration to students everywhere. It proves that with dedication, teamwork, and a passion for the great outdoors, young voices are already making a significant impact on the future of conservation.
Emily Freymuth - Now College Freshman
This fall I will be attending UW-Stevens Point where I will study Environmental Science. It was our school’s first time participating in the Envirothon competition so we did not know all of what to expect at the state competition or the national competition. At the Wisconsin competition we just tried our best and had fun. There were a few questions that we had no idea how to answer that we researched after the competition but also a lot of questions we were able to answer right away. It was a fun learning experience because we were there to pave the path for our school next year so you could imagine our surprise to find out we won the state competition. My favorite part of the nationals competition was getting closer with my team and meeting new people from other states. There were a lot of graduated seniors that were going on to study something environmental in college. It was nice to be able to talk to people about that common interest. The career fair on the first day was also very beneficial. I was given a lot of useful information about potential internships and jobs I might want to have while I am in college and after I graduate. This experience has made me more confident that I want to continue my education in Environmental Science.
Evangeline Davis - Junior
Hello my name is Evangeline Davis, an upcoming junior attending Cedarburg High School. After high school, I would like to major in Education and become an elementary school teacher. Although I am leaning toward education, I still love learning about the environment and environmental issues. Envirothon has been such a great opportunity to learn about different fields in environmental science as well as just expanding my knowledge. My favorite part about NCF Envirothon was the testing stations. It was so fun to work with my team and display what we have been studying and working toward. I hope to have this opportunity to attend NCF’s Envirothon again next year!
Natalie Reitz - Senior
I am interested in majoring in Communications and Marketing. I really enjoyed meeting all of the people from different states and coming together for the environment!
Haylie Wetsten - Senior
At both state and nationals, I really liked testing because I could see how much I knew being applied and I just find that really satisfying (and I won’t forget my poncho tearing and getting drenched during the Current Issues test). I also loved getting to see Niagara Falls for the first time and going on the boat that takes you right up close and in the mist. I got some really neat pictures! And, of course, it was nice to spend time with and get to know my teammates better throughout the week, which will make next year all the more fun. After high school, I plan to major in Environmental Sciences/Natural Resources.
Anna Dietz - Junior
My name is Anna Dietz and I am a junior in high school. Envirothon was a fun experience, especially because I am thinking of majoring in Environmental Science. Envirothon allowed me to learn and study many different topics that I would not have studied otherwise. I learned a lot about soils and forestry in particular. Along with learning, I enjoyed meeting people from all over the country and world at nationals. We had many opportunities to talk with the other teams, such as when we participated in a trading activity where we traded items related to our state with the other teams. It was interesting hearing about where the teams were from and their experiences in Envirothon.
2025 WISCONSIN ENVIROTHON
APRIL 11, 2025 LIONS CAMP | ROSHOLT, WI
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Wisconsin Envirothon, the state’s ultimate environmental science challenge for middle and high school students. Founded in 1988, this annual event combines hands-on outdoor learning with rigorous academic competition. Student teams will test their knowledge in Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Soils & Land Use, and Wildlife, while guided by natural resource professionals and educators. Participants will also tackle a current environmental issue in a team presentation, developing crucial leadership and communication skills. Join us for a day of environmental exploration, team-building, and the chance to represent Wisconsin at the National Conservation Foundation’s NCF-Envirothon. Don’t miss this opportunity to mentor the next generation of conservation professionals. Learn more about starting an team, becoming a volunteer, or sponsoring the event at wisconsinlandwater.org/envirothon.
