Published: Jun 28, 2013 | 21:09 PM

Irvine Ranch Water District Scientists Choose Science Fair Winners

Four students had their water-related projects selected as winners during the annual Irvine Unified School District Science Fair on February 29. Two scientists from Irvine Ranch Water District’s state-of-the-art Water Quality laboratory judged 35 projects.

“We judge on the use of the scientific method, completeness of research and evidence of problem-solving,” said Melinda Bergen, IRWD Laboratory Supervisor and veteran of many IUSD science fairs. “It’s amazing to see the level of creativity from these students.”

The students will be honored by the Irvine Ranch Water District Board of Directors on May 29. IRWD science experts have helped judge science fair projects since the 1980s as part of the District’s ongoing commitment to education and encouraging students to explore careers in science. 

The 2012 IRWD winners are:

• Gopal Vashishtha, grade 9, University High School, “Nano-Scale Zn Oxide in Membrane Bioreactor Systems”
• Louis Primeau, grade 6, Turtle Rock School, “Effect of Elevated co2 on Fresh Water Algae”
• Elizabeth Chang, grade 6, Plaza Vista School, “Evaporating Waters”
• Zach Howard, grade 6, Oak Creek School, “Bacteria: Back Bay Versus Newport Harbor”

Please visit our website for more about the IRWD education programs.