The Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, a nonprofit organization created to support the efforts of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Endangered and Nongame Species Program, invites New Jersey's 5th grade students to take part in this statewide contest commemorating the anniversary of New Jersey's Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Children are asked to choose a species from the state's endangered and threatened species list; conduct research about it using our website or other resources; write an essay that answers the question "How did this species become endangered or threatened in New Jersey, and what can we do to protect it?"; and to draw a picture of the animal in its natural habitat.

Highlights

• The "Species on the Edge - Art & Essay Contest" is intended to encourage children to consider how humans interact with and impact the natural world, express their concerns about the environment, think creatively about ways to improve it and become tomorrow's stewards of the environment.

• The contest opens November 1st each year and ends January 31st. One winner will be chosen per county, for a total of 21 winners across the state.

• A contest kit MUST be obtained to participate in the contest. Those interested in participating may obtain a contest kit by calling 609-984-0621. Kits may also be obtained by emailing or visiting the links listed below to download a kit.

• Educators praise the contest for encompassing inter-dispilinary teaching using science, language, arts, computer technology, art, and geography. Since 2003, over 5,000 children from across the state have enjoyed expressing themselves and demonstrating their respect and love of nature by participating in the contest.

Target Audience(s)
Open to all New Jersey 5th grade students

Additional Information
Maria Grace
Education & Outreach Manager
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ
P.O. Box 400
Trenton NJ 08625-0400
Phone: 609-984-0621
E-mail: maria.grace@conservewildlifenj.org
Website: www.ConserveWildlifeNJ.org
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