The South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation (SDPWF) is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors Essay and Art Contests, celebrating the creativity, insight, and outdoor experiences of South Dakota students.
The winners were recognized during the Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors Showcase, held May 8 at the Journey Museum in Rapid City in partnership with the Black Hills Community Foundation and the Journey Museum. The event brought together finalists, families, educators, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservation-minded citizens.
The Art Contest Grand Prize Winner is Isabella M. of Freedom Ranch Academy in Colton, South Dakota, for her painting, A Day of Fun All but Done. Through her artwork, Isabella beautifully captures the joy, connection, and lasting memories created through outdoor recreation.
The Essay Contest Grand Prize Winner is Grace C. of Spearfish Middle School for her essay, Timeless Ground. Grace's thoughtful writing reflects on the enduring value of South Dakota's outdoor spaces and the important role they play in shaping personal experiences across generations.
"The perspectives shared through these essays and artworks remind us why investing in our parks, wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities matters,” said Kathy Anderson, Board Chair, South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation. “These young people are the future stewards of South Dakota's great outdoors."
The Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors program was created to encourage young South Dakotans to share their perspectives on parks, wildlife, outdoor recreation, and the memories and traditions that connect people to the outdoors. The program aligns with the Foundation's mission to enhance outdoor recreation for future generations and protect our parks and wildlife.
In addition to recognizing the overall winners, the Foundation honored ten essay finalists and ten art finalists representing schools and communities from across South Dakota. Finalists received lodging, a gas card, and a South Dakota State Park Pass in recognition of their achievements.
Winning Essay — "Timeless Ground" by Grace C.
Winning Artwork — "A Day of Fun All but Done" by Isabella M.
Photo credit: Keith Anderson