A panel of judges has pre-selected the finalists for each category based on creativity, originality, and the ability to capture a sense of wonder for the environment. The judges also selected entries which incorporate an inter-generational team in their production.

The contest is meant to help bring forth the spirit felt by environmentalists like Rachel Carson. The entries selected by the judges "best express the 'Sense of Wonder' that you feel when observing the sea, the night sky, forest, birds, wildlife, and all that is beautiful to your eyes."