JEFFERSON CITY, MO – In recognition and celebration of Drinking Water Week, May 3-9, 2026, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Missouri Section American Water Works Association are holding a poster contest for students in the fifth grade. The department is now accepting entries, which must be postmarked by Feb. 28, 2026.
This year’s poster theme is “Save It, Don’t Waste It!” Posters should show ways to save and conserve our drinking water. Entries should be no larger than 11 x 17 inches, and artists may draw with any color or physical media, such as crayon, marker or pencil to create their posters. Digital media submissions will not be accepted. Entries will be judged on three criteria: How original the entry is, how well the concept is executed and how well the poster relates to public water supplies.
Judges will choose a first, second and third place winner. Prizes include $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place. The American Water Works Association provides the prize money. The department will feature winning entries on its social media platforms and website. Posters will not be returned after the contest.
Posters should be submitted to Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Public Drinking Water Branch, Attention: Tena Hale, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176.
For more information or for questions about the contest, contact Tena Hale of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 573-526-2180 or Twilia.Hale@dnr.mo.gov or visit dnr.mo.gov/water/get-involved/drinking-water-week.