Deadline to Submit Posters is May 11th, 2026

The Stearns Conservation District is excited to announce its first ever Poster Contest for students in grades 5th and 6th! Every year, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) choose a national theme such as soil, water, or habitats that spark creativity and action across the country. The theme inspires hands on lessons, outdoor projects, and community events that help people discover the importance of conservation.

In 2026, the theme is SOIL! The thematic phrase, "Soil. Where It All Begins" reminds us that everything starts with healthy soil. This theme helps us remember that caring for the soil is the first step in protecting all of our natural resources and keeping the land healthy for the future. One way to celebrate this theme is through the Poster Contest. Each year, students create posters that reflect the theme to show what conservation means to them. The contest encourages creativity while helping students learn how soil, water, air, plants, and wildlife work together to support life.

See below for the Stearns Conservation District Poster Contest information and rules!

Who can enter?

All students grades 5th and 6th.
Students must either live or attend school in Stearns County.

General Rules

One poster entry per person. No group entries allowed.
The poster size has to be on paper between 11"x17" and 22"x30". The poster can be oriented vertically or horizontally.
The poster MUST reflect the theme of soil and include the words "Soil. Where It All Begins."
All artwork must be original and hand drawn using markers, crayons, paint, pencils, chalk, charcoal etc. No stickers, print outs, or other attachments are allowed.
*THE DEADLINE to submit posters is May 11th, 2026!

What Makes a Good Poster?

A good poster is one that is creative, clear, and includes bold colors.
The poster should grab someone's attention, but have few words.
The poster should connect to the theme, "Soil. Where it All Begins".
The poster should include unique ideas and drawings.
The poster should help others learn why caring for soil is important!

How Do You Submit Your Poster?

You can drop off your poster at the Stearns Conservation District office Monday through Friday from 8:00am-4:30pm (110 2nd St S #128, Waite Park, MN)
You can drop off your poster at the Sauk River Watershed District office in Sauk Centre (642 Lincoln Rd, Sauk Centre, MN)
You can mail your poster to the Stearns Conservation District (110 2nd St S #128, Waite Park, MN)

*When you stop by one of the offices, you will fill out a release form with some contact information. If you plan to mail in your poster, please print off the release form found HERE, and mail it in with your poster.

Judging

Posters will be judged separately by grade.
Stearns Conservation District staff and Board Supervisors will judge the posters.
Judging criteria includes 50% conservation message, 30% visual effectiveness, 10% originality, and 10% visual appeal.

What Could You Win?

The top 3 posters in each grade (5th and 6th) will receive a certificate from the Stearns Conservation District.
The winning posters will be featured on our social media pages and website.
The winning posters will be featured in the SCD annual calendar.
The winning posters will be hung up at the Stearns County Fair.
The winning posters will also have the chance to compete at the Area Competition where a cash prize will be given. These posters will then have the chance to compete at the State and National Competitions as well!
County and Area winners will be announced in June.

Disclaimer - usage consent

By participating in the Stearns Conservation District 2026 Poster Contest, I hereby grant the Stearns Conservation District (SCD) permission to use my name and poster I have created in publications produced by the SCD. By submitting a poster, I waive the right to review or approve the completed advertising or promotional material that may be used. I authorize the SCD to edit, alter, exhibit, publish, or distribute my poster in the publicizing of SCD materials. By submitting my poster, I acknowledge that I may not get it returned to me. I have read and fully understand the contest rules of the SCD 2026 Poster Contest.

If you have questions, please contact Abbie Meyer with the Stearns Conservation District at 320-293-7945 or via email at Abigail.Meyer@mn.nacdnet.net.