The Takeyama Award

The Takeyama Western Water Reporting Award recognizes outstanding journalism on water issues in the American West. Administered by the Center for Environmental Journalism, Department of Journalism, College of Communication, Media, Design and Information, the University of Colorado Boulder, the award supports and celebrates reporters or reporting teams whose work advances public understanding of one of the region’s most pressing environmental challenges.

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Honoring the work of Janet Takeyama

The award is named in honor of University of Colorado alumna Janet Takeyama (Jour'66), whose legacy continues to inspire excellence in environmental reporting.

Eligible entries must have been published or aired during the year prior to Jan.23 and may be submitted in print, radio, podcast or online formats. The winner receives a $6,000 cash prize and will be invited to the CU Boulder campus to speak to students.

Submissions will be accepted from Sept. 1, 2026 to Oct. 1, 2026.

Apply for the Takeyama Western Water Reporting Award