Pennsylvania American Water Monday announced entries are now being accepted for its 12th Annual "Protect Our Watersheds" Art Contest.   The deadline for entries is March 28.

All fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students in schools served by Pennsylvania American Water are eligible, as well as individual students who live in the company's service area. The contest encourages students to draw on their artistic talents to convey the importance of protecting Pennsylvania's watersheds and water resources.

This month, Pennsylvania American Water is mailing contest applications to teachers in nearly 500 schools in its service territory. Winners will be selected based on creative vision, artistic talent, understanding of watershed protection and the ability to communicate that understanding. As part of their entry, students must write a brief narrative on the personal impact of watershed protection.

"Each year, an overwhelming number of students use their creativity to express their ideas for protecting our environment," said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape. "Pennsylvania American Water's vision is to be the trusted steward of our most precious resource -- water, and this contest is a fun and creative way for students to learn how precious it truly is and the importance of protecting it."

In 2013, the company received more than 500 entries from students across the state. The grand prize winner was Shannon Baransky of Abington Heights Middle School in Clarks Summit, Lackawanna County.

In total, six students will be recognized, with a first-, second- and third-place winner selected from eastern and western Pennsylvania. First-place winners will be rewarded with a $100 gift card to Barnes & Noble. Two second- and third-place winners will be awarded a $50 and $25 gift card, respectively.

In addition, the overall grand prize winner will have her/his artwork featured on "Bloomer" cards distributed by Pennsylvania American Water. Bloomer cards are seed-filled packets that, when planted and tended, produce a variety of wildflowers. All entrants will receive a Watershed Champion certificate. Awards will be presented in May as part of National Drinking Water Week activities.

Contest guidelines and entry forms are available on PA American Water’s Community Involvement webpage.

NewsClip: PA American Water Taps Kids’ Creativity With Art Contest

2/17/2014