2026 Dave Ferguson Scholarship

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts “Dave Ferguson” Scholarship Contest. This contest will give a young person in our county the opportunity to win up to $1,350 towards college expenses when they choose a conservation-related course of study at an accredited Arkansas college or university. The winner will also be eligible to compete for scholarship funds at the area and state level contests.

 

The essay should include all four items of the following components:

 

2025-2026 Theme & Criteria:

 

 Theme: “Soil.  Where It All Begins”

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Soil provides the essential element plants and animals need to survive, like food, water, shelter, and space.  Protecting soils helps maintain healthy ecosystems.

 

1. Define the benefits of healthy soil. Identify the many ways that healthy soil affects the quality of life for people. Discuss the beneficial roles of soils in healthy conditions which can be surprisingly far-reaching and enhance ecosystems, economic benefits, and benefits to the landscape.

2. Give an overview of activities that can be implemented by landowners, famers, organizations, and others to enhance and improve their soil.

3. Provide an actual example of a landowner/organization who has been helped by the conservation district.  (May use photos & videos and district will help locate landowners, if needed)

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 AACD Scholarship Awards:

1st Place - $1,000 / 2nd Place - $500  

                                             

Saline County Conservation District Awards:

1st Place - $350 / 2nd Place - $200 / 3rd Place - $150