(Athol, Idaho) The contest returned in full swing today as hundreds gathered for the 39th Annual Idaho State Forestry Contest at Farragut State Park in northern Idaho. This year there were 187 participants and 140 volunteers along with coaches and event support staff.

Today was a competition and a celebration. For the past two years, the contest was either cancelled or limited due to COVID-19 precautions.

This year had a new location, the addition of a job fair, and a visit from Sherri Ybarra, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The annual contest introduces students in grades 5 through 12 to basic forestry and resource management. The contest is typically held the second Thursday in May and is sponsored by the Idaho Department of Lands, Bonner Soil and Water Conservation District, U.S. Forest Service, and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

The competition includes log scaling, tree and plant identification, and compass and pacing.

“Flexing their forestry skills in this signature Idaho event is a wonderful jumpstart to a career in forestry for these students,” said Sherri Ybarra, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction, who spoke at today’s event. “And the new job fair opens doors for these competitors to prepare them to persevere in life and succeed in college.”

Media editors:

• Find pictures, video, and interviews in broadcast quality for use for television, print and social.
• Visit the Idaho State Forestry Contest webpage