Natural Resources
May 16, 2014

Encouraging Students to Help Protect Forest Resources

Annual Grade 5 Poster Contest Focused on Preventing Wildfires

The Provincial Government is inviting Grade 5 students in Newfoundland and Labrador to participate in a poster contest that focuses on helping protect communities, residents and forests from wildfires.
 
“The annual poster contest is an important part of National Forest Week which celebrates our connection to the forest - one of our greatest renewable resources. The entries we received in the past illustrated the students’ respect for, and knowledge of, our forests. This year we want to raise awareness about the dangers of wildfires.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency
 
Thirteen poster contest finalists will have their entries featured in the 2015 calendar which will be unveiled during National Forest Week, celebrated in Canada from September 21-27. The theme of the 2014 National Forest Week calendar is Only YOU can prevent Wildfires. In recognition of Smokey Bear’s 70th birthday, students are asked to create fire prevention posters which clearly outline unique fire prevention tips as well as ways forest fires can be prevented.
 
The provincial winner will receive an iPad Mini and case. Their poster will be featured on the cover of the National Forest Week calendar and their school will receive a $500 grant to be used toward the purchase of books for the school library.
 
Three winners, from the eastern, western and Labrador regions of the province, will also be selected. Each regional winner will receive an iPod Nano and a framed copy of their poster.
 
Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, and adherence to the theme. Entries must be postmarked by Friday, June 13. For complete details, contest rules and contact information, please visit www.gov.nl.ca/nr/forestry/index.html#2

QUICK FACTS

  • Grade 5 students are encouraged to enter the 2014 National Forest Week poster contest. The theme is Only YOU can prevent Wildfires.
  • One provincial and three regional winners will be selected from the entries based on originality, creativity and adherence to the contest theme.
  • Thirteen poster contest finalists will have their entries featured in the 2015 National Forest Week calendar.
  • The annual poster contest is an important part of National Forest Week, September 21-27.
  • On average there are more than 160 wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador every year. Fire fighters are most successful when wildfires are detected and reported while they are still small. Through early detection and an aggressive initial attack, the cost of fighting wildfires is kept to a minimum.

- 30 -

Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca
 
2014 05 16                                        12:50 p.m.