Wildfire Research Contest

Do you have ideas to help fight one of the most urgent challenges of our time? The ZEFR Wildfire Research Contest invites middle and high school students to explore innovative solutions for combating wildfires. Whether it’s using ocean water or finding creative ways to address issues like empty fire hydrants, this contest is your opportunity to make a real impact.
Wildfires, especially those like the Pacific Palisades fire, have left a lasting impact on Los Angeles County. Existing wildfire response efforts, such as air tankers, firebreaks, and emergency alerts, have made strides in managing large-scale fires. However, these methods still face challenges, from limited resources to difficulties in reaching remote areas. By rethinking current strategies and proposing new solutions, your ideas could significantly improve the effectiveness and speed of wildfire response.
This research contest challenges you to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions that could help prevent future disasters, support those affected by recent fires, and strengthen current efforts to protect communities and the environment.
Contest Details
Registration Fee: $100 (all proceeds go to supporting victims of the LA fires).
Important Dates:
- Registration opens February 1st.
- Instructions will be shared on February 1st.
- Research Seminar on February 23rd.
- Check-ins with participants in Mid-March and Mid-April (exact dates TBD).
- Submission deadline: April 30th.
- Final Prize Announcement at the 2025 Summer ZIML Convention (Exact Date TBD).
Stay tuned for more information coming soon!