The Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds is holding a contest for students in Grades 7 to 12, looking to answer the question “what can you do to improve your watershed?” as part of its Caring for our Watersheds program. 

To enter the contest, students must submit a 1,000-word proposal outlining how they would improve their local watershed.  

The deadline to submit entries is March 10. The entries will then be judged with the top 10 advancing to the final competition in Saskatoon on May 6. 

“Entries are generally judged on innovation, what the environmental impact is, communication, their budgets, whether it's realistic, maybe if they provide a visual and it really helps if they're very excited about their idea,” said watershed education coordinator Stephanie Huel. 

The finalists will be vying for the grand prize of $1,000 for the student as well as a matching $1,000 for their school. There are also cash prizes for places two through 10. 

“At the final, students do a five-minute presentation to a panel. Kind of in a Shark Tank-style (competition) and the winning entry will walk away with $1,000 for their group and for their school,” Huel said. 

Up to $10,000 is also available for finalist and non-finalist entries to apply for to implement their proposal. 

Those interested in entering or who would like to learn more about the contest can visit the Caring for our Watersheds website.