Envirothon NB 2026: Where Learning Comes to Life Outdoors

Rain boots, clipboards, soil pits, wildlife calls, teamwork, and big ideas for a sustainable future — that’s what Envirothon NB 2026 was all about.

This year, 12 teams from across New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island gathered at Mount Allison University and Irishtown Nature Park for two days of hands-on environmental learning, outdoor field testing, and real-world problem solving as part of the 2026 Envirothon NB competition.

For those unfamiliar with Envirothon, it is much more than a competition. Envirothon NB is an environmental education and natural resource management program that brings together students in Grades 6–12 to explore forestry, wildlife, aquatics ecology, soils and land use, and current environmental issues. Throughout the school year, students meet at their schools’ Envirothon NB clubs, participate in workshops and field experiences, and connect with natural resource professionals who help guide and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

Administered by the Canadian Woodlands Forum and delivered through a dedicated Provincial Steering Committee of volunteers and natural resource experts, Envirothon NB gives students the opportunity to experience learning in a completely different way — outdoors, hands-on, and connected directly to the world around them.

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Learning Beyond the Classroom

At the field test stations, students became wildlife biologists, foresters, soil scientists, and watershed managers for the day.

Teams identified animal tracks, pelts, skulls, bird calls, and frog calls during the Wildlife Field Test. They measured tree height and forest stand characteristics during Forestry. In Aquatics Ecology, students assessed stream health and water quality while learning about watersheds and conservation. At the Geology/Soils & Land Use station, competitors dug into soil pits, analyzed soil texture and drainage, and explored how land management decisions impact ecosystems and communities.

And yes — the rain and cold weather showed up too.

But at Envirothon, that’s simply part of the experience.

The outdoor conditions became another lesson in resilience, teamwork, and adapting to the realities faced by environmental professionals every day in the field.

Tackling Real-World Environmental Challenges

Day 2 shifted from fieldwork to presentations as teams tackled this year’s Current Environmental Issue: Non-Point Source Pollution.

Students were tasked with developing a sustainable housing and recreation proposal within the fictional Blue Bell River Watershed — balancing residential development, recreation, wetlands, fish habitat, water quality, and environmental protection.

Teams researched the issue in advance and delivered 20-minute presentations to a panel of judges made up of natural resource and environmental education professionals. Students defended their recommendations, proposed mitigation strategies, and demonstrated impressive communication and critical-thinking skills.

What stood out throughout the event was not only the knowledge students had gained, but their passion for environmental stewardship and their ability to collaborate, problem solve, and think creatively about the future.

Congratulations to Our 2026 Champions

Congratulations to all participating teams, teachers, and students who dedicated countless hours throughout the school year preparing for Envirothon NB 2026
The competition showcased incredible talent, teamwork, and commitment from every school involved.
In addition to the Top 3 Overall Scoring Teams, the top 3 teams were recognized and awarded medals for each field test station (Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Wildlife, and Geology/Soils & Land Use) as well as the oral presentations.

1st Place: Climate Crew

Stanley Consolidated School

2nd Place: Saint Mac’s Weed Wacks

Saint Malachy’s Memorial High School

Third Place: Eco-Lions

Leo Hayes High School

A Community Effort

Programs like Envirothon NB are only possible because of the support of an incredible community of contributors, sponsors, volunteers, teachers, and judges.

Thank you to this year’s contributors which include the NB Environmental Trust Fund and supporters whose investment in youth environmental education helps create meaningful learning experiences that extend far beyond the competition itself.

Thank you to the volunteers, steering committee members, station leaders, judges, and natural resource professionals who continue to mentor and inspire students year after year. Your willingness to share your expertise, career experiences, and passion for sustainability helps students see new opportunities and pathways for their future.

Whether explaining soil horizons in the rain, identifying wildlife calls in the field, or listening carefully to oral presentations, your dedication helps shape the next generation of environmental leaders.

Why Envirothon Matters

Envirothon helps students build confidence, leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while deepening their understanding of the environment and natural resources.

It also introduces young people to careers they may never have considered — forestry, wildlife biology, environmental science, watershed management, conservation, geology, parks management, education, and many more.

Most importantly, it reminds students that sustainability starts close to home — in our forests, waterways, communities, and backyards.

Get Involved

Interested in becoming part of Envirothon NB?

There are many ways to get involved:

  • Start an Envirothon team or club at your school
  • Volunteer as a station helper, mentor, or judge
  • Sponsor workshops, resources, or competition activities
  • Share your expertise and career experiences with students
  • Support environmental education opportunities in your community

Every contribution helps inspire curiosity, build knowledge, and empower youth to make a positive impact on the world around them.

To all students and teachers — thank you for being part of Envirothon NB 2026. We hope you have a fantastic summer, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the fall for another exciting year of learning, discovery, and outdoor adventure.

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