Florida DEP Hosts Earth Day Poster Contest to Inspire Young Artists

Florida Students Shine in Earth Day Poster Contest Celebrating State’s Aquatic Heritage

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In an engaging celebration of Earth Day 2025, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) orchestrated a statewide poster contest for students from grades 4 through 12. Participants were tasked with creating artwork inspired by the theme, “Protect & Preserve Florida’s Living Waters,” intending to foster environmental awareness among young minds.

This year’s theme was particularly significant as it also marked the 50th anniversary of the Florida Aquatic Preserve Act, a legislative milestone that has protected the state’s cherished aquatic ecosystems for half a century. Currently, Florida boasts 43 aquatic preserves across its terrain.

The contest produced finalists from each of the three grade-level categories: grades 4-5, 6-8, and 9-12. These were chosen from DEP’s six district offices. The finalists’ posters were evaluated by the DEP staff in Tallahassee, who selected a state winner for each category.

“Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Earth Day Poster Contest, and thank you to all who participated,” remarked DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “I’m inspired by these students’ creativity and their awareness of Florida’s environment. They understand that protecting our natural resources is a shared responsibility that we can fulfill through education, passion, and action.”

Grades 4-5 State Winner

Cole, Grade 5, Discovery Academy of Science

Grades 6-8 State Winner

Itsani Zacnite, Grade 8, Florida Virtual School

“Florida Waters, A Call for Protección”

Grades 9-12 State Winner

Alejandra, Grade 11, Osceola County School for the Arts

“Let Our Waters Thrive”

While Earth Day is observed annually on April 22, the DEP holds a steadfast commitment to the protection of Florida’s air, water, and land, serving as the primary agency for environmental management and stewardship in the state.

For the DEP, every day is Earth Day. Visit the webpage for more ideas on how to celebrate Florida’s environment year-round and to take meaningful steps to protect our natural resources.