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    4-H LogoFlorida 4-H

    4-H LogoFlorida 4-H

    Banner image of youth scuba diving

    4-H Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems Contest

    The 4-H State Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems Contest offers youth a unique opportunity to explore Florida’s aquatic ecosystems and species, with the 2026 theme focusing on “Responsible Angling.”

    Open to Juniors, Intermediates, and Seniors, the contest challenges participants through five core sections, with Seniors tackling an additional section. Each county can send up to two teams and two individual competitors per age group. Learn more about the contest day structure and sections by watching this overview video.

    This exciting, hands-on event encourages environmental stewardship and helps youth develop valuable knowledge and skills for the future. In addition to the main event, youth can showcase their creativity and participate in the Recycled Art Contest, more details for 2026 to come. 

    This is more than just a competition—it's a chance for youth to learn, connect, and contribute to the preservation of Florida’s aquatic ecosystems while developing valuable skills that will last a lifetime.

    Ready to make a splash? Join us for our 4-H State Aquatic and Marine Ecosystems Contest and become part of Florida’s next generation of ocean stewards!

    • Key Information
        Key Information
      Who

      All 4-H Members - Juniors, Intermediates and Seniors 

      Cloverbuds can participate in the Recycled Art Contest

      When November 21, 2026 
      Where

      4-H Camp Timpoochee (Central Time)

      Event

      Check in starts at 8:30 AM CST

      Contest starts at 9:00 AM CST

      Awards at 2:00 PM CST

      Event ends at 2:30 PM CST

      Cost

      $25 per participant - includes facilities, program supplies, and lunch

      $15 per non-participant - includes facilities and lunch

      No charge for participating in the Recycled Art Contest

      Registration

      Will open in 4-H Online August 2026

      Lodging

      Cabin lodging at 4-H Camp Timpoochee will be available for booking in August 2026. 

      Contact

      Program Content | Clair Norden, cnorden@ufl.edu

      Registration | 4hevents@ifas.ufl.edu

    Study Guides and Scoresheets
    • Section 1: Aquatic & Marine Ecosystem Connections

      RESOURCES

      • Study Guide - Aquatic & Marine Ecosystems
      • Scoresheets - Aquatic & Marine Ecosystems
    • Section 2: Wetland Ecosystems - Freshwater Marshes & Swamps

      RESOURCES

      • Study Guide - Wetland Ecosystems
      • Scoresheets - Wetland Ecosystems
    • Section 3: Aquatic Ecosystems - Lakes, Springs & Rivers

      RESOURCES

      • Study Guide - Aquatic Ecosystems
      • Scoresheets - Aquatic Ecosystems
    • Section 4: Coastal Ecosystems - Beach, Estuary, Marsh & Swamp

      RESOURCES

      • Study Guide - Coastal Ecosystems
      • Scoresheets - Coastal Ecosystems
    • Section 5: Marine Ecosystems - Coral Reef & Open Ocean

      RESOURCES

      • Study Guide - Marine Ecosystems
      • Scoresheets - Marine Ecosystems
    • Section 6: Responsible Angling Related Projects (SENIORS ONLY)

      RESOURCES

      • Senior Project Information & Rubric
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    Contact

    Feedback
    UF/IFAS Extension - Florida 4-H
    Building 1603, 2140 NE Waldo Rd, Room 107, Gainesville 32609
    (352) 846-4444

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