Florida Students Invited to Explore Seafloor for Earth Month

DEP's annual poster contest encourages learning about the state's underwater landscapes.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:02am

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A highly textured, geometric abstract painting in earthy tones of green, blue, and brown, featuring sweeping arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex geological and ecological features of Florida's seafloor.A vibrant, abstract representation of Florida's diverse seafloor, inspiring students to explore the natural wonders that lie beneath the waves.Arcadia Today

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is inviting students to participate in its annual Earth Day Poster Contest, which this year focuses on exploring the mysteries of the state's seafloor. The contest aims to educate young Floridians about the diverse underwater landscapes and ecosystems that exist just off the coasts.

Why it matters

Understanding the seafloor and coastal environments is crucial for conservation efforts, as well as appreciating the natural wonders that exist beneath the waves. By engaging students in this project, the DEP hopes to foster a new generation of Floridians who are passionate about protecting the state's marine habitats.

The details

The Earth Day Poster Contest challenges students to create artwork that showcases their discoveries about Florida's seafloor. Participants will be tasked with researching the unique geological features, marine life, and ecological importance of the state's underwater landscapes. The winning posters will be displayed publicly to raise awareness about this often overlooked aspect of Florida's natural environment.

  • The contest runs throughout the month of April, in celebration of Earth Day on April 22.

The players

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Florida's natural resources, including its coastal and marine environments.

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What’s next

The winning posters from the Earth Day Poster Contest will be announced and displayed in early May.

The takeaway

By encouraging students to explore and creatively represent the seafloor, the DEP's contest aims to inspire a new generation of Floridians to appreciate and advocate for the protection of the state's diverse underwater landscapes.