Students Compete at Envirothon

On April 28, 10 dedicated members of the New York Mills school community put their ecological expertise to the test at the annual Oneida County Envirothon. Held at the Utica Zoo and the NY Energy Zone, the event saw our Marauders compete against 29 other teams from 10 area schools in a rigorous display of environmental knowledge.

Representing New York Mills were two teams comprised of Aidyn Barber, Abbey Calhoun, Kaylin Holmes, Adriana Karakalchu, Neveah Kimble, Derick Madore, Abby Misiaszek, Eve Rzepka, Lucy Rzepka and Aubrey Salmon.

This year’s competition required more than just outdoor skills; both teams had to develop and deliver a comprehensive presentation focused on a pressing local issue: reducing non-point source pollution originating from residential areas in a rapidly developing county. Their plans addressed the complexities of urban runoff and sustainable land use, showcasing their ability to think like future urban planners and conservationists.

In addition to their presentations, students rotated through stations at the zoo where they were tested by experts on wildlife, soils and land use, forestry, current environmental issues and aquatics.

The experience pushed students to engage deeply with complex ecological problems and apply their classroom learning to real-world scenarios while competing against many talented teams from across the county. By participating in the Envirothon, these 10 students have demonstrated a clear commitment to environmental stewardship and the future health of Oneida County.