Students invited to submit calendar contest entries

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) has sent invitations to schools across the state, seeking students’ entries for the 2027 “Nebraska: Don’t Waste It!” environmental calendar. The contest is open to all Nebraska students from grades K through 12, and the submission deadline is May 1, 2026.

DWEE is looking for drawings that demonstrate the importance of good environmental practices and tips on reducing waste, recycling, and protecting Nebraska’s air, land, and water. DWEE will select 13 drawings to be featured in the calendar. In addition to having their art featured, students with winning entries will be invited to a recognition ceremony at the State Capitol in the summer.

Contest winners and their teachers will be notified via mail by June 25, 2026.

The Department has sponsored the contest for the past 21 years and has received thousands of impressive entries from students across the state. DWEE is eager to continue the tradition and see creations from another group of talented young artists.

To view contest guidelines, download the entry forms, and find related information, visit DWEE’s calendar contest webpage at https://dee.nebraska.gov/dwee-nebraska-dont-waste-it-calendar-contest-information. If you have additional questions, contact [email protected].