On Saturday, March 1st, Moses Lake High School’s Orca Bowl team made waves at the state Orca Bowl competition, the regional event for the National Ocean Sciences Bowl® (NOSB). Competing against schools from across Washington, the team secured impressive 3rd and 4th place finishes while also earning the prestigious Sportsmanship Award.

Moses Lake’s entry consisted of Braden Christensen, Lily Tun, Jannah Salas-Tepale, Patrick Avendano, Dahlia Albers, and Keziah Panlaqui. With limited space available, only six students were able to attend—one of whom stepped up to join the slush team. This team comprised members from three different schools that came together to compete as one. 

Hosted by Washington Sea Grant in partnership with UW’s College of the Environment, the event tested students' knowledge of marine science, policy, and conservation in a fast-paced, quiz-style format. In addition to competing, the team had the incredible opportunity to tour UW’s Fish Collection, the largest in North America, gaining hands-on exposure to marine research.

With growing interest in ocean sciences, plans are already underway to expand the program next year and bring two teams to the competition.

Congratulations to the team on their outstanding performance and for making a name for Moses Lake in the world of marine science!