Caring for Our Watersheds is the Chesapeake Bay's longest-running environmental action challenge.

It’s an unparalleled opportunity for students to develop STEM knowledge, environmental and climate literacy, and civic action skills as they create solution-oriented projects to improve their watershed.

Groups of middle and high school students investigate environmental problems in their community and develop civic solutions answering the question, “What can we do to improve our watershed?”. Participation, implementation, and prize money available!

Earth Force and Nutrien provide funding that supports putting their ideas into action.

RSVP Here

How does it work?

“What can you do to improve your watershed?”

Classrooms are asked to design and submit action project proposals that answer the question: “What can you do to improve your watershed?”

Open to Middle & High School classrooms in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

Educators are eligible to receive professional development and support from Earth Force and its partners.

Win Money to Create Change

Classrooms compete for $6,000. Participating schools and clubs are eligible for $10,000. Implementation funding is available for $10,000.

Get Started

“I have received consistent and positive support in implementing this program that allows our students to solve real world problems in their community. The dedication of this nonprofit has led to an improved community and an engaged youth that understand how to make positive change.”
Mary Breslin
George Washington Middle School

Meet your Earth Force Coach!

Sarah Jennings ("SJ") coordinates the Caring for Our Watersheds Chesapeake Bay challenge. She was a K-12 public school teacher for a decade and has a MA in curriculum and instruction. She is a certified trainer of Environmental Action Civics and NAAEE's K-12 Environmental Education Guidelines for Excellence. SJ will support you in anchoring CFW to your curriculum via co-planning.

Important Dates

2025 submissions are now closed. Please click here to RSVP for the Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2025!

Watch Caring for Our Watersheds Students Reflect on Their Experiences

Click here to view students' action stories!

Interested in Volunteering?

Volunteers can work directly with students and educators as a classroom presenter, mentor, or a project judge!

Volunteers will:

  • Build youth-adult partnerships with the next generation of changemakers
  • Learn about students’ innovative project ideas and provide input to strengthen their ask for a change
  • Receive swag or a gift card for participation
Email for Info!

The program is a project of Nutrien in partnership with nonprofit organizations around the world. Earth Force is proud to be the host of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Caring for Our Watersheds.

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