05/22/2026
NJ Students Set to Go to International Competition in July . . . competitors gathered for this photo at the Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education in Waretown.
The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) Team 1 has emerged as the winner of the 2026 New Jersey State Envirothon and will proudly represent New Jersey at the International NCF-Envirothon this summer in Starkville, Mississippi. The event was hosted by the Ocean County Soil Conservation District at the Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education in Waretown, NJ. Each of the fi ve team members will receive a $1,000 scholarship for their outstanding achievement and will now compete against teams from the United States, China, Singapore, and Canada.
Students from across the state participated in this dynamic, one-day environmental competition, which included hands-on challenges in areas such as soils, forestry, wildlife, aquatics, and the special topic, “Nonpoint Source Pollution: It Begins at Home.” Richard Dovey, President of the New Jersey Association of Conservation Districts, commended all participants for their hard work and dedication to environmental science.
Held every May, the New Jersey State Envirothon brings together high school teams from grades 9 through 12 to compete in environmental science and natural resource management disciplines. Students rigorously prepare throughout the school year with the help of their advisors, using study materials and attending outdoor training sessions. This year, 17 teams competed, with the Ocean County STEM school securing the title of New Jersey State Champion. Metuchen High School Team 1earned second place, while Lawrenceville Team 1 took third place.
The International NCF-Envirothon will take place July 19-25, 2026 at Mississippi State University, featuring fi eld tests on soils, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and non-point source pollution.
Students will also deliver presentations incorporating traditional and innovative approaches to tackle environmental challenges. Envirothon promotes both academic achievement and career paths in environmental science and resource management, preparing students with essential skills for future challenges.
As MATES Team 1 readies to represent New Jersey internationally, let's support their pursuit of excellence!
The 2026 New Jersey State Envirothon is organized by the New Jersey Association of Conservation Districts. The competition was made possible through the contributions of several sponsors and partnering federal and state environmental agencies, County Soil Conservation Districts, and higher education institutions providing expertise to organize the event. Volunteers help the day of competition proctoring tests, judging team presentations, timekeeping and serving breakfast and lunch to over 180 attendees.
