Florida sixth-grader makes soil balls to save water, eyes $25,000 prize

An 11-year-old schoolgirl from Oviedo, Florida, has created a simple tool to help farmers save water during dry weather. Naboshree Santra, a sixth grader at Jackson Heights Middle School, made special soilshade balls that break down naturally. These balls slow down water evaporation and help the soil stay wet for longer. Her idea has earned her a spot in the finals of the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, where she could win a $25,000 main prize.According to a July 6 press release from 3M and Discovery Education, Naboshree is among 10 students picked from across the country for the 19th annual competition. The contest invites children in grades five to eight to use science, technology, engineering, and math to solve real everyday problems.A profile on the Young Scientist Lab website highlights her work with natural materials. She designed her invention as an easy, eco-friendly way to help dry farmland.