2026 Nature Bowl Semi-finals

Nature Bowl 2026 Semi-Finals, hosted by Friends of the Refuge were held at Blue Heron Trails in Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge on April 8th and marked the 40th year for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s event. Nearly 90 third through sixth grade students from schools in the Elk Grove and Sacramento area experienced the natural environment through engaging outdoor science activities. Congratulations to the Aspire Vincent Shalvey 3rd/4th team from Lodi coached by Juan Alfaro, and the Joseph Sims 5th/6th team from Elk Grove USD coached by Candace Beam, who both advanced to the Finals on May 9th at Camp Pollack. Good luck to them there! Volunteer judges were from Friends of the Refuge, EGUSD, Refuge staff and the community. Additional participating elementary schools were Florence Markofer, Marion Mix, Union House and Brilliant Beginnings from Elk Grove and Theodore Judah from Folsom. A fun time was had by all!