Caring for our Watersheds

How CFW Works

CFW asks students to submit a proposal that answers the question:

"What can you do to improve your watershed?"

The Contest:

Students can work independently, or as a team of no more than four to research their local watershed, identify an environmental concern, and come up with a realistic solution. Students are encouraged to discuss ideas with parents, teachers, friends, and local experts.
Proposals should be approximately 1,000 words and include visuals and a budget.
Entries are scored by a panel of judges on the following areas: realistic idea, environmental impact, clear communication, innovation, scope, budget, and visuals.
Ten finalists/ teams will make 5-minute verbal presentations at a final competition.
All finalists win cash rewards (up to $1000) for themselves and matching rewards for their schools. Schools also receive $100 for every ten complete proposals submitted, even if they do not send students to finals.

Project Implementation (voluntary):

In addition to cash rewards, there is also $10,000 (up to $1000 per project) available for students to implement their projects.
ALL participants (finalists and other) are eligible for these "mini-grant" implementation funds.

CFW Important Dates:

Teacher/ Advisor Workshop: October 12, 2012 This informational workshop will be held at the Center for Land-Based Learning headquarters in Winters, CA and will cover program logistics, watershed issues/ resources, and service-learning ideas. Substitute and travel reimbursement may be available.

Proposal entry deadline: February 1, 2013 Entries are to be submitted online (www.caringforourwatersheds.com). Teachers/Advisors must register school first. If no web access, contact CFW coordinator for paper registration/ submission.

Final Competition: April 13, 2013

NOTE: CFW California is currently open to all 9th-12th grade students who live in the Sacramento-San Joaquin watershed in Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, Colusa, Yuba, Sutter, Glenn, El Dorado, Placer, and San Joaquin counties.