Polk County Public Schools
David Futch, a senior at Winter Haven High, has been named one of eight finalists nationally for the American Museum of Natural History’s Young Naturalist Award. The award is a research-based essay contest for students in grades 7-12 to promote participation and communication in science. Futch is one of eight finalists in the 12th grade category.
David’s essay entry was based on his award winning science and engineering fair project, “Providing Habitat for Threatened Drymarchon corais couperi Utilizing Gopherus polyphemus Burrows.”
The drymarchon corais is a threatened snake species found in the southeastern United States, southern Texas and Mexico. David’s recent research on the species examines the use of gopher burrows as a protective habitat for the snake.
His research related to the species earned him a Best of Show award in both the 2007 and 2008 Regional Science Fair and recognition award in the zoology category at the 2007 State Science Fair in Fort Myers. He also won an American Veterinary Association award for his study of the species at the 2007 Intel International Science And Engineering Fair held in Alburquerque, N.M.
David will compete again with his drymarchon corais project at the both the 2008 State Science Fair and the 2008 Intel International Science And Engineering Fair. The State Science Fair will be held at the Lakeland Center from April 16 to 18 and the International Fair will be held in Atlanta from May 11 to 16.
David has researched the drymarchon for the last four years primarily at the Historic Bok Sanctuary located in Lake Wales. His teacher at Winter Haven High is Rhea McKinney. He is the son of Steve and Debbie Futch.
In evaluating submitted essays for the American Museum of Natural History award, judges looked for a clear analysis and interpretation of collected data. The research question and conclusion were also required to be supported by observations and the collected data. Judges looked for well-documented books, periodicals, and Internet sources. Judges also looked for an interesting, engaging essay told in the student’s own words with a clear and consistent focus in writing and a logical progression of ideas. Illustrations, photographs, maps, and other visuals that support and add depth to the information presented were also part of the total evaluation. All visuals were to be student-created and could include drawings, maps, charts and/or graphs. Photographs submitted were required to be taken by the student.
For more than 130 years, the American Museum of Natural History has been a leader in scientific research, conservation, and education. Located in New York City, the Museum is renowned for its collections and exhibitions. Winners of the American Museum of Natural History Young Naturalist Awards will be announced by the museum later this spring.