Annual Speak-Off Competition
California Association of Resource Conservation Districts
The CARCD
Speak-Off
2026
A statewide student speech competition connecting the next generation of conservation leaders to the land — and to each other.
2026 competition topic
"What are the different effects that native vs. non-native invasive plants have on our ecosystems, and why does it matter to the work RCDs do?"
- 3 Rounds of competition
- 99 RCDs across California
- Nov. '26 Statewide final · Sacramento
How it works
Three rounds.
One stage.
Round one
Local video submission
September 2026
Students submit a 3–5 minute recorded speech through a simple online form. No travel required, no high-pressure stage — just you, your ideas, and what you know about your local land. Your RCD will connect you with topic resources and everything you need to get started.
- Record from anywhere
Round two
Regional virtual round
September – October 2026
Local round winners advance to compete live in a virtual regional round. You'll present your speech in real time to a panel of judges and fellow participants from across your region — same topic, higher stakes, live delivery. It's your first taste of speaking to an audience that's truly listening.
- Live presentation, virtual format
Round three — the final
Statewide — CARCD Annual Conference
November 17–19, 2026 · Sacramento, CA
Regional winners come to Sacramento to compete live and in person at the CARCD 81st Annual Conference. This is the main stage: a statewide audience of conservation professionals, district leaders, and peers from every corner of California. Finalists present their speeches for top recognition as California's leading student conservation voice.
- In person at the CARCD Annual Conference, Sacramento
Why compete
Built to build confidence
The Speak-Off is designed so any student can start — and grow. The first round asks nothing more than a camera and a great idea. By the time you're standing on stage in Sacramento, you've already proved you can do it. This progression from a low-pressure video to a live statewide final is intentional: every step builds the skills, knowledge, and confidence for the next one.
Low barrier entry
A video submission means anyone can enter — no travel, no stage fright, no equipment beyond what you already have at home or school.
Real science, real stakes
Research the difference between native and invasive plants with guidance from the people who manage California's land every day.
Statewide stage
Finalists present live at one of California's premier conservation conferences — in front of the professionals shaping the state's land future.
Supported by your RCD
Your local Resource Conservation District connects you to mentors, topic resources, and a network spanning all 58 California counties.
Ready to compete?
Find your voice.
Speak for the land.
Contact your local Resource Conservation District to register and get connected to competition resources, mentors, and everything you need to begin preparing your speech.
Questions?
We're here to help
Please reach out to CARCD Membership & Administrative Coordinator, Dominique Mask, with any questions about the Speak-Off competition, eligibility, or how to get your students involved.
1017 L St, #556 · Sacramento, CA 95814
CARCD Speak-Off
A program of the California Association of Resource Conservation Districts · carcd.org · Sacramento, CA
