Temple, Texas -- The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) announced the winners of its 2025 Photo and Poster Contests during the 80th NACD Annual Meeting, held in San Antonio. The annual contests highlight the creativity and conservation awareness of students from across the nation, and this year, Texas youth were proudly among those recognized on the national stage.

Kenzie Alan Ray captured national recognition by winning the NACD Photo Contest in the Close-Up Conservation Youth Division. Kenzie, the daughter of Keith and Kendria Ray, is currently a sophomore at Devine High School. Her passion for photography began during her first year in 4-H, when Medina County AgriLife hosted photography workshops that sparked her interest in capturing the world through a creative lens.

Through her award-winning close-up image, Kenzie demonstrated how conservation can be seen in even the smallest details, reminding viewers that stewardship often begins with simply taking a closer look. Her achievement reflects not only her artistic talent, but also the importance of youth programs that connect students to natural resources education.

Texas was also represented in the NACD Poster Contest, where Anayah Serna, representing the Austin County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) #347, earned 2nd place in her division at the national level. Anayah is a 10-year-old fourth grader who loves to paint and draw landscapes, often drawing inspiration from the books she reads and the world around her.

Anayah won the 2025 Texas Conservation Awards Program Poster Contest, advancing to national competition. The theme was “Home is Where the Habitat Is,” encouraged students to explore and illustrate the habitats that support the diverse species found across Texas and the United States. Through her artwork, Anayah thoughtfully captured the connection between wildlife, habitat, and responsible land stewardship.

The NACD Photo and Poster Contests are part of a long-standing effort by conservation districts nationwide to engage youth and adults in natural resource conservation. By encouraging artistic expression alongside environmental education, the contests help cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders.

The Texas Soil and Water Conservation Board is proud to support programs that empower students like Kenzie and Anayah to explore conservation through creativity, proving that conservation awareness can begin with a camera, a canvas, and a commitment to caring for the land.