The DelAtlantic Conservation District, in collaboration with the New Jersey Association of Conservation Districts and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, proudly sponsors the New Jersey Conservation Poster Contest. This annual competition invites students in grades 2 through 12 to express their creativity and environmental awareness by designing posters that promote conservation themes and inspire action within their communities.
2026 Theme:
Soil. Where it all Begins.
The 2026 NACD Stewardship Week theme, Soil. Where It All Begins, celebrates the incredible power of soil to support life in all its forms. Soil is not just the ground we walk on. It is the starting point for healthy food, clean water, thriving habitats, and resilient communities. From backyard gardens to forests and city parks, everything begins with what is beneath our feet.
Soil does a lot more than grow plants. It holds water, cycles nutrients, and provides homes for billions of living organisms that help keep nature in balance. It keeps roots in place, helps prevent flooding, and supports wildlife and people alike. The trees in our neighborhoods, the food on our tables, and the natural places we love all depend on healthy soils.
Conservation districts across the country work every day to protect this vital resource. Through education, technical support, and local partnerships, they help landowners and communities keep soil healthy, productive, and resilient. Districts also provide free educational resources to schools, families, and community groups to inspire the next generation of soil stewards and help people of all ages connect with conservation in meaningful ways. Conservation districts lead the way in caring for the land, from helping farmers manage erosion to supporting school gardens in town, and so much more.
When we take care of soil, we are taking care of everything it supports. That is why soil is where it all begins.
By designing a poster around this theme, students have the opportunity to explore how forests play a vital role in our lives and to inspire others to protect these natural treasures.
Students can research the theme using resources available at schools, public libraries, and online. Educators and parents can also find curriculum support for the theme at NACD Stewardship and Education.
How the Contest Works
Who Can Participate?
Students in grades 2 through 12 are invited to participate in the contest. Download this 2026 Poster Contest Rules for the entry form, detailed guidelines and rules. Posters are judged in several age categories to ensure fair competition.
Judging Criteria
Posters will be judged on the following:
- Message: How well the poster conveys the contest theme.
- Visual Impact: The creativity and design of the poster.
- Clarity and Appeal: How effectively the poster grabs attention and communicates its message.
Prizes
The DelAtlantic Conservation District will award:
- $50 gift cards to first-place winners in each age category.
- $25 gift cards to second-place winners in each age category.
First-place District winners advance to the State competition. State winners move on to the National Conservation Poster Contest, showcasing their talent on a larger stage.
Why Participate?
Creating a poster gives students the opportunity to:
- Learn and Advocate: Research the contest theme and become advocates for environmental conservation in their community.
- Inspire Change: Use art to communicate powerful messages about environmental stewardship.
- Meet Educational Goals: Teachers can use this contest to align with New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in Science, Social Studies, and Visual Arts.
How to Enter the Contest
Submission Details
For Schools Only: Contact the District at 609-625-3144 to arrange for poster pickup.
Mail Posters To:
DelAtlantic Conservation District
6260 Old Harding Highway
Mays Landing, NJ 08330
Celebrating the Winners
The District takes pride in celebrating the creativity and hard work of all participants. Winning posters from the District level are sent to Trenton for judging at the nation-wide state level, with winners recognized at an awards ceremony. Past winning posters can be viewed below.
We thank all students and educators for their participation and look forward to seeing the incredible talent and passion expressed in this year’s contest.
For more information about the 2026 Poster Contest, call 609-625-3144 or contact us for updates & additional resources
2025 Winners
Grades 2-3
Grades 4-6
Grades 7-9
Grades 10-12
