Students Bring Innovation and Creativity to 70th Annual High Plains Regional Science Fair and Engineering Fair

More than 400 bright young minds from middle and high schools from 15 regional schools put their innovation and creativity on display at the 70th annual High Plains Regional Science Fair on March 25 at South Dakota Mines.

From microplastics in the water we drink to the dirtiest place in the public library, students showcased their research and presentation skills.

Rich Wells, a Mines alumnus and head judge, expressed optimism about the future of STEM, highlighting the impressive caliber of student projects.

Mines President Dr. Brian Tande echoed Wells' sentiments. “The world has many problems to solve, and we need all of you to take on that challenge,” he said during the science fair awards ceremony.

Catherine Van Winkle, from Van Winkle Homeschool, is the high school division winner for her project My Family Pedigree. In May, Van Winkle will represent the High Plains region on an all-expense paid trip to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Columbus, Ohio.

Photos from the fair, including winners, can be found here.

The winners in each category can be found here.