DOVER, DE — The Delaware Forest Service is sowing seeds of creativity among the state’s youth with its annual Arbor Day Poster Contest. The contest, which is open to all K-5 students in public, private, and homeschool settings, as well as after-school and other organized youth groups, aims to nurture an appreciation for the vital role trees play in our lives.
This year’s theme, “Trees are Terrific…for Outdoor Adventures!” encourages children to explore the great outdoors. The contest underscores the value of spending time outside, an activity that has been proven to boost health, reduce stress, foster a connection with nature, and cultivate environmental stewardship. Whether it’s exploring a state forest, biking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a good book under a leafy canopy, trees enhance our outdoor experiences.
Despite the hustle and bustle of modern life, trees remain a constant presence in our daily lives, gracing parks, schoolyards, and backyards with their beauty. Through this contest, the Delaware Forest Service hopes to inspire children to see these familiar fixtures as the focus of their outdoor adventures.
The contest culminates on Delaware’s official Arbor Day, Friday, April 26. Entries will be evaluated based on originality, use of theme, neatness, and artistic expression. Twelve winners—one from each county in four grade categories—will be selected. In addition to the accolade, winners will receive a gift card, a tree-themed book, and a tree planting at their school. All participating classes will be gifted free loblolly pine seedlings.
The winning students and their posters will be honored at the annual Statewide Arbor Day Celebration hosted by Governor Carney. Each winner’s school will also host a tree-planting ceremony in recognition of Arbor Day. As an added bonus this year, the teacher of each winning student will receive a “Tree Trunk” filled with outdoor learning resources.
The deadline for registration is March 9, with entries due by March 22. The Delaware Forest Service invites everyone to take part in this creative celebration of trees and the great outdoors. As the state’s young artists sketch, color, and paint their tributes to trees, they will be helping to spread an important message about the value of our natural environment.
Register to Participate and Receive Seedlings: 2024 Arbor Day Poster Contest – Google Form
Contest Guidelines and Teacher Resources: Guidelines and Resources – Shared Google Drive
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