Metro Atlanta has a unique water story. You may know that water keeps metro Atlanta going and growing. It has been an important part of the success of our economy and central to our region’s culture and history, which are some of the many reasons we work so hard to protect our water. In fact, since the creation of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District over 20 years ago, the per capita water use has dropped by more than 30%, thanks in part, to the water conservation efforts of metro area residents, utilities, schools, and businesses.
Though it is not as commonly discussed, wastewater is an important part of the water treatment process. When water goes down the drain or toilet at home or at school, it is considered wastewater. Then the wastewater goes to a water treatment plant. Then it goes through the wastewater treatment process before being cleaned to a high standard and returned to our natural water sources.
For the 2025 Middle School Water Essay Contest, we ask middle school students to think about what happens to water after it is flushed down the toilet, or drains into the sink or shower. Then, answer one of the following prompts:

1. Briefly describe the wastewater treatment process. Why is wastewater treatment an important part of the region’s water systems? How can returning treated wastewater to our rivers and reservoirs benefit our natural water sources?

2. Just because you can flush something down the toilet doesn’t mean that you should. Using the resources below, write about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet and why. Silly and funny (but *appropriate*) answers are ok!You may also consider reading about the WIPPES Act and writing a letter to persuade your senator to vote.

Middle School Essay Contest Information Flyer

• Essays must be typed. If there are any special circumstances requiring a handwritten
  essay, please contact [email protected].
• Each essay must be submitted with an entry form.
• Essays must be each student’s original work. Plagiarized essays will not be
  considered. Essays written using AI or similar programs will not be considered.
• All essays must be received no later than: October 25, 2025
• Essays must be submitted online at using the form below. If
  there are any special circumstances requiring essays be submitted by mail, please contact [email protected].

Read Middle School Essay Contest Guidelines

Entries will be judged on their creativity, clarity and content. Essays without complete name and contact information will be disqualified. A judging committee will be comprised of staff from the Metro Water District, utility partners, and other stakeholders. 

Review Judging Rubric.

One winner from each of the 15 counties as well as the City of Atlanta will receive $100. The District-wide winner will be selected from among the county and city winners to receive an additional $400 for a total prize of $500.