Pennsylvania American Water announced Wednesday entries are now being accepted for its 13th Annual Protect Our Watersheds Student Art Contest.  The deadline for submissions is April 10.

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 tap into their artistic talents to express the importance of protecting Pennsylvania’s water resources.

Pennsylvania American Water is currently sending contest information and 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, we are amazed by the students’ incredible creativity in expressing how all of us play a role in protecting the environment,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape. “This contest is a fun, creative way for children to learn about our precious water resources and the importance of protecting our watersheds.”

In 2014, the company received more than 500 entries from students across the state. The grand prize winner was Owen Kagle from Chartiers Valley Intermediate School in Allegheny 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.

For contest guidelines and entry forms, visit PA American Water’s Protect Our Watersheds Student Art Contest webpage.

2/9/2015