Waterston Desert Writing Prize 2026

The High Desert Museum is excited to announce the 2026 Waterston Desert Writing Prize, which celebrates outstanding literary nonfiction reflecting a deep connection to desert landscapes.

🏜 About High Desert Museum Waterston Desert Writing Prize

• Sponsor Organization: High Desert Museum
• This prize honors nonfiction writers who demonstrate artistic excellence, desert literacy, and sensitivity to place.

🎁 Benefits

Winners of the Waterston Desert Writing Prize will receive:

• $3,000 cash award
• Public reading and reception at the High Desert Museum
• Recognition by an advisory committee and guest judge
• Networking opportunities with desert-focused writers and advocates

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the prize, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be nonfiction writers (poetry, fiction, and juvenile literature are not eligible).
• Work must demonstrate artistic excellence, desert literacy, and sensitivity to place.
• Submissions should be part of or related to a book-length nonfiction manuscript.
• Generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) are prohibited in submissions.

📋 Application Process

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Fill out the online application form on Submittable. This form is the ONLY location where identifying information (name, address, email) should appear.
2. Upload ONE Word (.doc or .docx) or PDF file containing the following three parts:
   • Biographical Statement: One double-spaced page in 12-point type with one-inch margins. Do not disclose your identity in this section.
   • Proposal Title and Description: No more than one double-spaced page in 12-point type with one-inch margins.
   • Writing Sample: No more than 10 double-spaced pages in 12-point type with one-inch margins.
3. Submit materials via Submittable. Incomplete and late applications will not be reviewed.

📅 Application Deadline

• Deadline: 01 May, 2026

🌐 Application Portal

• View details of the prize on the High Desert Museum Waterston Desert Writing Prize website.
• Apply directly via Submittable.

For nonfiction writers passionate about desert landscapes, this is an incredible opportunity to showcase your work and connect with like-minded individuals. Don't miss the chance to apply!

• $3,000 cash award
• Public reading and reception at the High Desert Museum
• Recognition by advisory committee and guest judge
• Networking opportunities with desert-focused writers and advocates