New York City Department of Environmental Protection recently announced its 27th annual Water Resources Art and Poetry Contest. Open to students in the New York City area, the contest invites participants to create original art and compose poetry that reflects an appreciation for our shared water resources. 

The program helps raise awareness about the importance of clean, high-quality drinking water, and what it takes to maintain New York City’s water supply and wastewater treatment systems. 

Entries are being accepted now until March 1, 2013 and may be submitted online, by mail, or delivered to DEP headquarters. Entries submitted by mail or delivered must be 22” x 28” or smaller and have a completed entry form attached securely on the back. Participants must register for the contest at www.nyc.gov/dep. An award ceremony honoring all student participants will take place in May. 

In a press release from the DEP, Commissioner Carter Strickland said, “The annual Water Resources Art and Poetry Contest is a great opportunity to teach students about the water systems that keep New York City running and raise awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. Each year, hundreds of students in New York City and the Watershed demonstrate their creativity and appreciation for NYC Water and we are excited to see this year’s submissions.” 

This year's contest will focus on themes including the importance of tap water, the history of the NYC drinking water system, the wastewater treatment process, and the value of water and conservation.

We run a regular feature in WSO called "Winning them Over" to inform you about these types of programs that water systems and treatment plants are using to educate the public. Check one out: www.wsomag.com/editorial/2013/01/just_for_grown_ups

How does your plant bring awareness to customers about clean water and conservation? Do you take an active role in leading education programs? Send me your thoughts to brianaj@colepublishing.com.