Metro Atlanta has a unique water story. You may know that water keeps metro Atlanta going and growing. It has been an important part of the success of our economy and central to our region’s culture and history, which are some of the many reasons we work so hard to protect our water. In fact, since the creation of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District over 20 years ago, the per capita water use has dropped by more than 30%, thanks in part, to the water conservation efforts of metro area residents, utilities, schools, and businesses.

For the 2026 contest, we ask middle school students to think about drought. Even though we have had some rain, all of Georgia is still in a Level-1 declared drought. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in Bartow, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale counties are invited to write an essay in response to one of the following prompts:

1. Research Georgia droughts using the resources provided. You might consider interviewing someone who experienced the 2007 or 2016 drought, like a family member or employee of your local water utility. How do droughts affect metro Atlanta/the North Georgia region, and what are some things we can do to work together to help during a drought?
2. Use the resources provided to answer the following questions. Why is water conservation especially important during a drought? How can you save water at home and at school?

Middle School Essay Contest Information Flyer

• Essays must be typed. If there are any special circumstances requiring a handwritten
  essay, please contact [email protected].
• Each essay must be submitted with an entry form.
• Essays must be each student’s original work. Plagiarized essays will not be
  considered. Essays written using AI or similar programs will not be considered.
• All essays must be received no later than: October 23, 2026.
• Essays must be submitted online at using the form below. If
  there are any special circumstances requiring essays be submitted by mail, please contact [email protected].

Entries will be judged on their creativity, clarity and content. Essays without complete name and contact information will be disqualified. A judging committee will be comprised of staff from the Metro Water District, utility partners, and other stakeholders. 

Review Judging Rubric.

One winner from each of the 15 counties as well as the City of Atlanta will receive $100. The District-wide winner will be selected from among the county and city winners to receive an additional $400 for a total prize of $500.