Waterston Desert Writing Prize 2025 | Opportunity to Win Cash Awards
Applications are now open for the Waterston Desert Writing Prize 2025—a unique essay writing contest organized by the High Desert Museum in the USA. This international competition welcomes writers from all over the world.
The Waterston Writing Prize supports writers whose work is inspired by the desert, highlighting its importance in both nature and human history. This competition celebrates the beauty and rich culture of the High Desert region in the USA. More than just an award, it provides a platform for writers to showcase their talent and improve their writing skills. If you have a passion for writing, make sure to apply before the deadline.
Prize & Opportunities
The winner will receive a $3,000 cash prize, offering great motivation for writers to participate. In addition, the winner will be invited to an award ceremony and reception at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025, with travel assistance provided.
This competition connects a community of writers, readers, and advocates who share a love for the desert landscape. If you’re looking for a top writing contest in 2025, this is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss!
Why You Should Apply
The Waterston Desert Writing Prize is an excellent chance to write about the importance of deserts and their role in the world. Writers can submit samples of their work and compete for cash prizes. A panel of judges, including a guest judge for 2025, will review the submissions.
This award was created in 2014 by Ellen Waterston, an author and poet, who has been inspired by the High Desert for more than 40 years. This paid writing competition is a fantastic opportunity for writers to take part in an international contest.
Key Details
- Country: USA / Online
- Financial Coverage: Paid
- Deadline: May 1, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Writers from all countries are eligible.
- Applicants must be nonfiction writers who demonstrate artistic excellence, a strong connection to the desert, and a commitment to desert-related literature.
- The award supports writers working on a book-length manuscript (in progress, proposed, or planned).
- Applicants should submit a writing sample that matches their proposed project in style and content.
- The winner must provide a high-resolution photo for promotional use.
- Travel assistance is available, but the winner must attend the award ceremony and reception in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025.
- The winner must allow the Museum to publicize their name and award.
- Within 12 months of receiving the award, the winner must submit a one-page report outlining how the prize helped their work, project progress, and future plans.
Benefits of the Waterston Writing Prize 2025
- A $3,000 cash award to support the winner’s writing.
- Recognition for outstanding literary nonfiction focused on the desert.
- Invitation to an award ceremony & reception at the High Desert Museum in Oregon, USA.
- Publicity & exposure through the High Desert Museum’s promotional efforts.
- A chance to develop and refine writing skills.
- Increased visibility and recognition in the writing community.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit a single Word (.doc or .docx) or PDF file containing the following:
- 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).
Do not include your name or identifying details in the document.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official website or click the “Apply Now” button.
- Fill out the application form on Submittable, which is the only place to enter personal details like name, address, and email.
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
- No budget is needed for your project description.
- Combine all required documents into one file and submit it through Submittable.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Waterston Desert Writing Prize 2025 is May 1, 2025.
If you meet the requirements, don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your writing and gain international recognition!
