For Release: Monday, December 6, 2004
DEC Announces 2005 Arbor Day Poster Contest
Students Encouraged to Participate, Entries Must be Received by January 12, 2005
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Erin M. Crotty today invited all New York fifth-graders to showcase their artistic talent and their commitment to the environment by participating in the 2005 Arbor Day National Poster Contest sponsored by DEC, the State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the State Education Department, National Arbor Day Foundation and Toyota Motor Corporation.
"The Arbor Day National Poster Contest allows us to introduce the ideal of environmental conservation to New York's next generation of environmental stewards," Commissioner Crotty said. "By teaching children about the energy saving benefits and beauty of trees, we can also help foster their appreciation of these important environmental resources. I thank our sister agencies for helping to make this contest possible and look forward to seeing these beautiful works of art."
State Agriculture Commissioner Nathan L. Rudgers said, "It is always inspiring to know children are learning about our natural resources. This contest will give children the opportunity to explore the energy saving and producing qualities of trees while reaffirming the classic idioms regarding the beauty and importance of trees to our environment and economy."
Students are asked to design an original poster depicting this year's contest theme: "Trees are Terrific ... And Energy Wise!" The New York State winner will have his or her artwork replicated as the official 2005 New York State Arbor Day bookmark and the winning poster will be presented at the annual Arbor Day Celebration in Albany. Last year, New York printed more than 37,000 Arbor Day bookmarks for distribution at schools, libraries, government offices, nursery and landscaping businesses, and environmental organizations throughout the State.
In addition, the New York State winner will have his or her artwork submitted to compete in the National Arbor Day Poster Contest. The national winner will be announced at a ceremony in Nebraska City, Nebraska scheduled for April 29, 2005.
The contest is open to all students enrolled in the fifth grade. Teachers and parents who home-school their children can request contest packets by contacting Mary Kramarchyk, DEC's poster contest coordinator, at (518) 402-9425. Packets include background information, hands-on educational activities, and complete contest rules. Posters must be submitted by Friday, January 9, 2005.
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