This year’s Envirothon theme was focused on climate change resilience, biodiversity, and land management in the Adirondack Park. Teams from schools across the state participated and were asked to present a solution in ten minutes to a panel of judges, using original graphics and team-based answers to follow up questions.

The students from Chautauqua Lake’s presentation earned them the highest presentation score in the state, and propelled them to their third place finish overall.

“The Envirothon challenged our students to become clear communicators and confident leaders,” Chautauqua Lake Principal, Rachel Curtin said. “The level of preparation was intense, and they took it seriously. Their presentation demanded poise, precision, and a deep understanding of complex environmental issues. They practiced, accepted feedback, and on the day of the competition, when they couldn’t flinch or miss a beat, they absolutely locked in and presented with confidence. I’m so proud of their research and the way that they demonstrated what it means to be ‘all in’ as a team.”

Their achievement also highlights the commitment of the student team, along with the support they received from teachers, families, alumni, and the broader school community. The team’s success at the state level also followed a previous success at the Chautauqua County Envirothon, which was held at Camp Merz in Mayville. During that competition, 24 teams competed in challenges related to forestry, soils, aquatics and wildlife, and Chautauqua Lake’s two teams finished first and third overall. The first place team advanced to represent Chautauqua County at the state competition held at SUNY Cortland May 28 and 29.

The Chautauqua Lake Envirothon team and their coaches Mary Jantzi and Clifford Bailey.

“Cliff (Bailey) and I have been fortunate to work with a group of dedicated students who not only go above and beyond but also share a deep love for the outdoors,” Coach Mary Jantzi said. “This particular core group has been with me for three years. We’re also grateful to the Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District, who along with volunteers and sponsors have been instrumental in preparing our team for the New York State competition. Their well-organized and rigorous event has been key to our students’ growth and success.”

This is not the first big win when it comes to Envirothon for Chautauqua Lake students, with the 2024 teams earning first and third in the county competition, and the first place team advancing to state level. At the state level, last year’s team placed first in the forestry category and finished 11th overall out of 41, only 1.33 points away from being in the top ten.

“Envirothon was one of the most formative experiences of my life, it taught me priceless teamwork and environmental skills that have opened the door for a future career in protecting the environment of New York,” current Envirothon team member, Devin Kelsey, said.

Chautauqua Lake officials noted that the school’s team continues to set the bar high for environmental education and teamwork, and congratulated them on their success.

“We are incredibly proud of this year’s Envirothon Team,” Superintendent Josh Liddell said. “Their hard work, dedication, and extra effort truly paid off at the state level. We’d like to offer a special congratulations to Mary Jantzi, who is celebrating her 30th year as our Envirothon advisor. Over the years, she has guided our teams to many outstanding performances, and this year’s team is certainly one of the best we’ve ever had.”

Pictured is the Chautauqua Lake Envirothon team along with the school’s administration and board members.

To learn more about the Envirothon, visit www.nysenvirothon.org.