National Wildlife Week Art Contest

Elementary school students across Nova Scotia will mark National Wildlife Week, April 9-15, with an art contest.

"We're encouraging our younger students to explore the wonders of their local watersheds," said Natural Resources Minister Brooke Taylor. "I know there's great creativity out there, and I look forward to seeing how they interpret the beauty and importance of our wetlands."

Students are invited to create artwork that expresses why they think wetlands are important. Prizes will be awarded in two categories: Grade Primary to 3, and Grade 4 to 6. Every teacher whose class takes part in the contest will receive a wetland information package full of helpful educational resources. The deadline is April 30.

First place winners in each category will have their artwork mounted and unveiled at the opening of the Ducks Unlimited Greenwing Legacy Interpretive Centre at the Provincial Wildlife Park in Shubenacadie later this spring. They will also receive an invitation to the opening, a family daypass to the wildlife park and a wetland prize package.

Two honourable mentions in each category will receive a family daypass and a wetland prize package.

Contest rules have been sent to elementary schools throughout Nova Scotia. The contest is sponsored by the Department of Natural Resources and Ducks Unlimited Canada.