Envirothon

What is the Envirothon?

The Envirothon is a yearly competition for students in grades 9-12 to demonstrate their knowledge of the environment and natural resources. Students, in teams of 5, are tested on their knowledge of soil and land use, wildlife, forestry, aquatic ecology, and a current environmental issue.

The contest is a great opportunity for students to gain practical, hands-on skills that will be useful throughout their careers. Students have the chance to improve their teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving while participating. Envirothon connects students to professional, seasoned experts, inspiring the next generation of environmental professionals.

Locations:

  • April 29, 2026 Area II Envirothon
  • 2026 Ohio State Envirothon Competition: June 1-3rd, 2026: at Franciscan University of Steubenville, 1235 University Blvd., Steubenville, OH 43952
  • 2026 NCF Envirothon Competition: Dates: July 19-25, 2026: at Starkville, Mississippi, Mississippi State University

Related resources: 

Envirothon Areas of studies resources
Ashland’s test resources

**** If busing costs are a concern, some teachers are looking into options to share costs and rides. Contact our office and we can connect teachers to one another to help figure out options. ****

 

Winning entries will be hung at the Earth Day Festival on April 25, 2026 and then at the Main Branch of the Medina Library until May 15th.

Coloring ContestNOW OPEN

The annual coloring contest is open to kindergarten – sixth grade.

Annual Contest Rules:
1) Open to all K-6 grade children in Medina County
2) Students can use any 2D materials such as crayon, colored pencils, markers, collage, etc. (no digital).
3) Students must independently color their entry.
4) Entry slip (below the coloring page) must be completely filled out. Only the student’s first name, grade, & school will be shown publicly to protect child safety and privacy.
6) Entries must be received by March 20, 2026. 
Mail or drop off entries to Medina County SWCD, 6090 Wedgewood Road, Medina, Ohio 44256

Categories:
Entries will be judged in these 5 grade categories: K & 1st; 2nd, 3rd; 4th; 5th & 6th.

Prizes:
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category will be chosen based on coloring skills, lack of white space, and the creative additions. Prizes will be given April 25, 2026 12 noon at
the Medina County Earth Day Festival

2026 Theme:

Poster ContestNOW OPEN

The annual NACD and NACD Auxiliary poster contest  is open to youth in grades K-12. It provides students with a chance to have their art displayed as part of a national conservation outreach initiative. It is open to public, private, and home-schooled students.

The top three county entries will receive monetary awards from Medina SWCD: 1st place-$25, 2nd place- $15, 3rd place-$10. However, more posters may advance to state than just the overall top three. The top poster(s) from each of these five-grade divisions will continue to state: K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12. 1st place winners at state will move onto nationals. Winners at state and nationals also receive awards.

Theme for 2026: Soil. Where it all begins. 

Deadline: May 8th

*** Mail or drop off posters to Medina SWCD, 6090 Wedgewood Rd, Medina, Ohio 44256 ***

Contest Rules:

  • Size: The poster design size should be between 8.5 x 11 and 11 x 17 inches.
  • Media: Any traditional media may be used, including paint, crayon, colored pencil, charcoal, stickers, paper, or other materials. Mixed media art is welcome.
  • Originality: Posters must be created by an individual student—team projects are not permitted. Tracing or copying from photographs or other artists’ works is not allowed.
  • Include the theme: The 2026 Stewardship theme phrase, “Soil. Where it all Begins,” must be included in full on the front of each poster to be eligible for the national contest.
  • Assisting students: While younger students may receive planning assistance from parents or teachers, students are encouraged to complete their own work.
  • Entry Information: student’s name, grade, school, and parent/guardian’s connect information need to be taped on the poster’s back or included in an envelop to be eligible.

SWCD Evaluation:
Conservation message (50%), Visual layout (30%), Originality (10%), Universal Appeal (10%).

For questions contact Abby Costilow at 330-722-9318

For details visit NACD’s contest page

2024 National winners

MENU