Thursday, February 04, 2010

Approximately 80 high school students from across North Carolina will test their scientific knowledge at the regional leg of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6 in Dobo Hall at the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

The Blue Heron Bowl, one of 25 regional jeopardy-style competitions will test students' knowledge of biological, chemical, physical and geological oceanography. The NOSB is designed to cultivate the next generation of marine scientists, teachers, explorers researchers, technicians, environmental advocates and informed citizens.

Fifty UNCW faculty and students will facilitate the competition. UNCW students will serve as moderators, timekeepers, science judges, rules judges and scorekeepers.

The winning team of each regional competition will receive an all-expense paid trip to the NOSB competition April 23-25 in Petersburg, Fla., along with other prizes such as trips to marine research locations and oceanographic institutions. Last year's winning team, Raleigh Charter, took seventh place in the national competition.

Enhancing the country's quality of life and improving the economy through continuing education in marine science is the primary goal of the NOSB competitions.

Media are invited to capture interactive visual and interview opportunities at the event.

Media Contact:
Joy Davis, Marketing and Communications, 910.916.8603 or davisjc@uncw.edu