# Hudson Data Jam Competition

Cary Institute's annual competition challenging middle and high schoolers to analyze real Hudson River watershed datasets and tell the science story creatively. Cash prizes up to $400 per project.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | Hybrid (in person + online) |
| Location | Millbrook, NY |
| Apply | https://www.caryinstitute.org/eco-inquiry/hudson-data-jam-competition/contest-essentials-registration |

## About this program

# Hudson Data Jam Competition

For twelve years the Hudson Data Jam has challenged students to make data "sing." Run by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, New York, the competition asks student teams to graph, analyze, and creatively interpret real Hudson River watershed data for a public audience, presenting a compelling, accurate data-based story drawn from local science.

## What You'll Do

- Pick from dozens of local datasets collected by Cary Institute ecologists and partners including Scenic Hudson and Riverkeeper
- Graph and analyze the data, then identify a trend worth telling the public about
- Write a scientific report using the official Hudson Data Jam report form (55% of the score)
- Build an interpretive creative component - a graphic, song, video, sculpture, computer game, puppet show, children's book, skit, or exhibit
- Submit online for judging by scientists, artists, and educators, then attend the virtual awards ceremony

## Who Should Apply

Middle and high school students in the Hudson Valley region, working alone, in small teams, or as a whole class. A modified Junior Data Jam runs for elementary students. Every participant needs an adult adviser - a teacher, parent, guardian, or mentor - who completes the registration and collects student consent forms.

## Outcomes

Traditional Data Jam prizes include $400 for best overall project and $200 for each level winner, plus honorable mentions and sponsor prizes, all awarded at the virtual Awards Ceremony & Celebration. Students walk away with data-analysis, scientific-writing, and science-communication experience grounded in their own watershed.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Hudson Data Jam Competition?

Hudson Data Jam Competition is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Hudson Data Jam Competition online or in person?

Hudson Data Jam Competition is a hybrid program with both online and in-person components (in-person portions in Millbrook, NY).

### How do I apply to Hudson Data Jam Competition?

Apply directly through Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

---

Last updated: 2026-07-28.
Canonical page: https://extracurricularhub.com/extracurriculars/hudson-data-jam-competition
Source: ExtracurricularHub (https://extracurricularhub.com) — a free directory of 1,900+ verified extracurricular programs for high school students. Cite the canonical page above; always confirm binding details on the program's official site.