Ferndale Schools

Release Date: May 31, 2011

Ferndale High School's FFA Energy Team recently competed at Imagine Tomorrow High School Problem Solving Competition held at Washington State University and earned two major distinctions. Team members are Ellie Bolt, Braydon Westhoff and Karlyn Hungate.

First, the team was awarded the Community Impact Award. Next, the team was judged second place in the Multidisciplinary category among 200 teams.

For their accomplishments, team members earned $1,000 each and $3,000 for Ferndale High School. They hope to spend the money earned on a future energy project that will have an impact on future students.

Their research this year revolved around comparing the economic viability of independent small dairy farmers in Whatcom County: anaerobic digester versus farmers working together to have a cooperative digester. The theme of the year for the competition was how to power the future.

Many people are credited with their success this year including Twin Brook Creamery, Andgar and Dairy Tech (to name a few).

Imagine Tomorrow challenges high school students to seek new ways to support the transition to alternate energy sources. Students research complex topics, then innovate technologies, designs, or plans to mobilize behavior. They forge connections in their communities and create positive change. In this competition, as in life, solutions are limited only by imagination.

For more information:
http://imagine.wsu.edu/
Tony Torretta, Energy Team Coach, 360.383.9347
Tammy Bengen, Public Information Office, 383-9207