Apply Now for the 2025 Waterston Desert Writing Prize: A Unique Essay Contest for Writers Around the World
The 2025 Waterston Desert Writing Prize is now open for submissions! Organized by the High Desert Museum in the USA, this prestigious essay writing contest welcomes writers from across the globe.
This competition highlights the importance of the desert landscape, its profound influence on nature, and its significant role in human history. Writers with a passion for exploring the desert’s beauty and culture are encouraged to apply. This is more than just a contest—it’s an opportunity to grow as a writer, gain exposure, and celebrate the rich history of the High Desert region.
Prize and Opportunities
The winner of the Waterston Desert Writing Prize will receive a $3,000 cash award. In addition, they will be invited to attend an award ceremony and reception at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025. Travel assistance will be provided to ensure the winner can attend this special event.
The contest offers a chance to connect with a community of writers, readers, and desert enthusiasts, making it a great opportunity for those passionate about the desert landscape to engage with like-minded individuals. If you’re looking for an exciting writing contest in 2025, this is one you won’t want to miss!
Why You Should Apply
The Waterston Desert Writing Prize offers a unique opportunity to write about the desert’s importance and its influence on our world. Writers can submit samples of their work and compete for a chance to win the cash prize and recognition. A panel of judges—including a special guest judge for 2025—will review the submissions, making this an opportunity for feedback and exposure.
This prize was founded in 2014 by Ellen Waterston, an author and poet inspired by the High Desert for over 40 years. It serves as a fantastic international contest for nonfiction writers to showcase their talent and passion for desert-related themes.
Key Details
- Country: USA / Online
- Financial Coverage: Paid
- Deadline: May 1, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure that you meet the following criteria:
- Writers from all countries are eligible to apply.
- Applicants must be nonfiction writers with a strong connection to the desert and a demonstrated commitment to desert-related literature.
- The competition supports writers working on a book-length manuscript, whether in progress, proposed, or planned.
- Applicants must submit a writing sample that aligns with the style and content of their proposed project.
- The winner must provide a high-resolution photo for promotional use.
- Travel assistance will be provided, but the winner must attend the award ceremony and reception in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025.
- The winner must allow the Museum to publicly recognize their name and award.
- Within 12 months of receiving the prize, the winner must submit a one-page report on how the award has contributed to their project, progress, and future plans.
Benefits of the Waterston Writing Prize 2025
- A $3,000 cash prize to support your writing journey.
- Recognition for outstanding literary nonfiction focused on the desert.
- An invitation to an award ceremony & reception at the High Desert Museum in Oregon, USA.
- Increased visibility through the Museum’s promotional efforts.
- An opportunity to enhance and refine your writing skills.
- Greater exposure within the writing community.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents in a single Word (.doc or .docx) or PDF file:
- Biographical Statement (one page, double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins)
- Proposal Title and Description (one page, double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins)
- Writing Sample (up to ten pages, double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins)
Important: Do not include your name or any identifying information in your document.
How to Apply
To apply, follow these steps:
- Visit the official website or click the “Apply Now” button.
- Complete the application form on Submittable (the platform where you’ll enter personal details like name, address, and email).
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before submitting your application.
- No budget details are required for your project description.
- Combine all required documents into a single file and submit via Submittable.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit your application for the Waterston Desert Writing Prize 2025 is May 1, 2025.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, this is your chance to showcase your writing talent on an international stage. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain recognition and support for your writing project!