Christian Peterson
reporter.riverbendnews@gmail.com
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), working with Wildlife Forever, hosts an art contest every year. “The annual program invites youth from around the world to connect with nature and learn about fish and aquatic habitats while exploring creative art and writing,” the FWC website reads.
The Fish Art Contest started in 1997 and has since reached over 85,000 youth in 46 countries. “The free contest is accessible to students from kindergarten through 12th grade,” the website states. “Each year, thousands of entries pour in from across the globe, reflecting the program’s widespread appeal and impact.” The contest will have one first place winner and one runner-up for each grade bracket. The grade brackets are kindergarten through third grade, fourth through sixth grade, seventh through ninth grade and 10th through 12th grade. There will be one winner and runner-up for the best freshwater fish species and one for the best saltwater species.
“We are proud to support Wildlife Forever’s Fish Art Contest, a program that not only fosters creativity but also deepens young Floridians’ connection to our state’s rich aquatic heritage,” said FWC Commissioner Sonya Rood. “We are committed to preserving Florida’s natural resources by encouraging students in grades Kindergarten through 12th to participate in this contest and celebrate the beauty of our waterways and wildlife while educating the next generation about conservation.”
The contest is open to all youth. To participate, one must submit a completed entry form, a one-page creative writing submission, and an original piece of artwork featuring any native Florida fish species. In the freshwater category, native fish options include Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Spotted Sunfish, Channel Catfish, Florida Gar, Chain Pickerel and Bowfin. In the saltwater category, options include Snook, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, Tarpon, Mahi-Mahi, Spanish Mackerel, Hogfish, Queen Snapper and Black Grouper.
Submissions are open until Friday, Feb. 28. To submit entries or learn more, visit www.MyFWC.com/FishArt.