CCCC is pleased to launch the 2026 Crane-Inspired Creative Arts Scholarship Contest!

Open to all high school seniors in both Routt and Moffat Counties, this annual event seeks to raise awareness of Sandhill Cranes and to encourage engagement in the arts among the younger generations.

The work must be original and accurately reflect the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat of the Rocky Mountain Population of Greater Sandhill Cranes in the Yampa Valley. Judging is completed by a panel of experts in three categories of art:

• Category 1: Story or Essay – A creative nonfiction essay or fictional story of 750-1500 words.
• Category 2: Poetry or Song – Three poems OR an original piece of music with lyrics.
• Category 3: Visual Arts – A painting, sketch, photograph, or digital art.

CCCC will award a total of $10,000 in continuing education scholarships:

• The First-Place winner in each category will receive a $2,000 scholarship.
• The Second-Place winner in each category will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
• Two Honorable Mention awards from any category will receive a $500 scholarship each.

Entries must be received by Feb. 9, 2026.  No late entries will be accepted. Scholarship awards are contingent on the winner’s acceptance into a continuing education institution. Please be advised that all of these pieces of work are protected by copyright.

Entries will be displayed in a special gallery at The Art Depot in Steamboat Springs during the month of March, and a First Friday Art Walk event will highlight contest participants on March 6, 2026.

CCCC encourages Routt and Moffat County seniors to participate, learn, create, and enjoy! See below for full contest information & rules: