Registration is open for the 29th annual Nature Bowl Science and Conservation Program

Registration is open for the 29th annual Nature Bowl Science and Conservation Program, an elementary school activity-based competition held each spring for students in the Sacramento Valley and Sierra foothills.

The program is coordinated by the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), and local organizations and agencies to increase science and conservation literacy of third- to sixth-grade students.

Participants employ teamwork, creativity and critical thinking while participating in group-learning activities centered on local and regional natural environments. It is open to students from interested schools or organized youth clubs.

Teachers, youth group leaders or parents can sign up to coach a team.

Teams consist of three to seven children each with the top scoring teams advancing to the finals that will be held at California State University, Sacramento on May 18.

The entry fee for each team is $20 and includes materials.

The semifinals will be between mid-March and mid-May at several locations, including: Nimbus Hatchery in Rancho Cordova; Stone Lakes Refuge in Elk Grove; Gibson Ranch in Elverta; Sierra College in Rocklin; Placer Nature Center in Auburn; American River Nature Center in Coloma; New Melones Lake in Angels Camp, and at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area in Davis.

Workshops are scheduled in January for Nature Bowl coaches to integrate environmental science concepts and conservation information into classroom curriculum. New coaches are encouraged to attend one of these workshops.

For more information about the Nature Bowl call DFG at 916-358-2869 or visit dfg.ca.gov/regions/2/naturebowl

http://cdfgnews.wordpress.com/2012/12/28/registration-opens-for-nature-bowl-science-and-conservation-program-2/