City of Bend invites students to tell the story of 100 years of exceptional water
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- The City of Bend has launched its 2026 One Water Student Video Contest to honor the 100th anniversary of the City’s Water Services. Students in grades 6–12 are invited to produce a 30-second video celebrating a century of exceptional water by highlighting Bend’s water history, its impact on the community, and the innovations that have sustained high water quality for 100 years.
Students are asked to select one aspect of Bend’s water system history and craft a compelling 30-second story explaining why Bend’s 100-year legacy of exceptional water matters today. Possible topics include: the beginnings of Bend’s water system a century ago; the history of Bend’s water sources; how the water system has evolved over time; the journey of Bend’s water from source to tap; the role of water in shaping Bend’s growth, health, and environment; and water conservation and sustainability efforts—then and now.
“Celebrating a century of exceptional water, this contest offers students a creative platform to explore how water service has shaped Bend’s identity and well-being,” said Lori Faha, City of Bend Environmental Resources Manager. “By tapping into the power of visual storytelling, these young voices can help us remember our shared history and inspire future stewardship.”
The contest is presented in partnership with Central Oregon Daily and BendFilm. The Grand Prize winner will collaborate with Central Oregon Daily to professionally produce their commercial, which will air on local television.
The contest is open to all Bend students in grades 6–12. The deadline to enter is 5 p.m. on May 1, 2026. The Grand Prize includes $1,000 plus a collaboration with a TV producer to adapt the winning video for broadcast. Division winners will receive $100 each—one winner in grades 6–8 and one in grades 9–12. Teacher awards include $150 for the instructor of the Grand Prize winner and $50 for each division-winning teacher.
