Pennsylvania American Water announced today that entries are now being accepted for its 16th Annual “Protect Our Watersheds” Art Contest. 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, according to a press release issued Monday.

Pennsylvania American Water recently sent 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.

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“Today’s students are connected more than ever to our environment and the role they play, now and in the future, to preserve our natural resources,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Jeffrey McIntyre. “Our annual contest allows them to use their imagination and creativity to make the connection between their actions and the impact on our drinking water resources.”

The deadline for artwork submissions is April 13, 2018. Contest guidelines and entry forms are available on the company’s website at www.pennsylvaniaamwater.com, under “News and Community.”

In 2017, the company received more than 500 entries from students across the state. The grand prize winner was Henry Rummel, a sixth-grade student from Indiana 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.

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