Theme:  “Soil. Where it all Begins.”

•  Open to all students in Marion County, grades K through 12, on an individual basis.
•  Poster size must be 14” by 22”.
•  Any media may be used to create a flat or two-dimensional effect (i.e., crayons, paints, colored pencils,   pen, charcoal, paper, or other materials).
•  The NACD Stewardship theme, “Soil. Where it all Begins.” Must be written on your poster.
•  Official entry forms must be completed in full and taped to the back of the poster.
•  Failure to comply with these contest rules will disqualify the contestant. Entries can still be judged;   however, no award(s) will be given for disqualified entries.

DIVISIONS

Artwork is judged based on grade level in five divisions: K-1st; 2nd-3rd; 4th-6th; 7th-9th; and 10th-12th.

JUDGING CRITERIA

Judges will score entries based on the following:

•  Conservation Message: 50 points
•  Visual Effectiveness: 30 points
•  Originality: 10 points
•  Universal Appeal: 10 points

AWARDS

Top three winners in each of the five divisions will receive awards:

• 1st Place:  $50
• 2nd Place: $25
• 3rd Place:  $10

DEADLINE

Friday, November 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM.  PLEASE CALL BEFORE DELIVERY.
Deliver posters to MSWCD; 2710 East Silver Springs Blvd; Ocala, FL 34470

PARTICIPATION

MSWCD reserves the right to display posters, participants' names, etc. First-place winners advance to the next level of competition and become property of the contest. Posters must be picked up at MSWCD’s office after the local contest. MSWCD is not responsible for returning or lost/damaged posters. Earns points towards "Conservationist of the Year".

For additional information, contact MSWCD at (352) 438-2475 or ann.bishop@marionfl.org