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Speak-Off!

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Student gives a speech from home

Each year, the IERCD holds a speak-off competition for local high school students. Participants prepare a 3-5 minute speech on the annual prompt and compete for cash prizes! This year, the IERCD is hosting a virtual competition. Students should submit a video of their speech by 5 PM on  Friday, October 6th. The top 3 contestants will be invited to perform their speeches live at IERCD headquarters on Thursday, October 19th, where the winner will be announced. 

The winning video will be entered into the regional contest. The regional winner will then be required to participate in-person for the state competition. This is scheduled to occur during the Annual California Association of Resource Conservation Districts Conference in Sacramento. Keep in mind, the state-level Speak-Off contest is live in front of  around 250 attendees and prohibits the use of any notes.  Students from IERCD's service area who place at the state level contest will receive a cash prize and be eligible for a Summer 2024 internship with an environmentally-focused organization. 

This year's prompt is: 

"California climate is changing, and groundwater recharge will be important to ensure water for future generations. Are there other natural resource benefits to groundwater recharge projects and how can RCDs help? What local or regional examples can you point to and how have these examples helped your community?"

 

How to Enter 
  1.  Confirm that you live within IERCD's boundaries by checking here. If not, please check with your local RCD! 
  2. Download and complete the CARCD Speak-Off Application below
  3. Record a 3-5 minute video of yourself addressing the prompt. 
  4. Submit using the form below!
Complete the CARCD application first!

 2023 Submission Form

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Having trouble uploading? You can also email your submission to Shari Tindall at stindall@iercd.org.

What makes a winning speech? 
May contain: advertisement, poster, page, and text
Prizes! 
  • All students who submit a video to the 2023 Speak-Off competition will automatically receive a $10 gift card!
  • At the local level: 
    • 1st place receives $250
    • 2nd place receives $150
    • 3rd place receives $100
  • At the regional level: 
    • 1st place receives $200
  • At the state level: 
    • 1st place receives $300
    • 2nd place receives $200
    • 3rd place receives $100