FILM CONTEST

We are happy to announce the winner of this year’s Virginia Environmental Film Contest! These award winning films will be shown February 21 - March 7, 2026.

“The Virginia Environmental Film Contest (VEFC) is an important part of the annual Richmond Environmental Film Festival (RVA EFF). This contest is open to new and experienced Virginia filmmakers submitting films on environmental topics focusing on Virginia. The RVA EFF intends to screen the First Prize Winner in a Richmond theater in the Spring of 2026!”

Virginia Environmental Film Contest

First PLace winner:

Catching Pinecones

Catching Pinecones was made as a passion project over 10 years and tells the life story of pioneering rock climbers, cavers and nature preservationists, Jan and Herb Conn. The Conns began their wilderness explorations in Virginia and lived a sustainable lifestyle off the grid for nearly 70 years. They have inspired generations of environmentalists. 

– Directed by Chad Heddleston

View this Film at Studio Two Three on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 5:25 pm - 7:00 pm. 

Virginia Environmental Film Contest

second PLace winner:

All Forward!

All Forward! profiles an intensive training program for river raft guides to learn to navigate the nation's only class III/ IV urban whitewater in Richmond Virginia. Through trials, tough lessons and sometimes dangerous adventures, a few guides graduate only to have their journey interrupted by an environmental disaster.  

– Directed by Justin Black

View this Film at Studio Two Three on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 4:30 pm - 5:25 pm.