Montgomery, IL – The Village of Montgomery is thrilled to announce its first Arbor Day Poster Contest, inviting third, fourth, and fifth graders to showcase their creativity and love for nature through art. This initiative aims to promote environmental awareness and celebrate the significance of trees in our community. In early 2023, the Village received its official designation as an Arboretum Level II for its vast collection of trees, more than 11,000 of which feature more than 100 species.
Arbor Day is a nationally recognized holiday dedicated to tree planting and conservation, providing a perfect opportunity for children to learn about the vital role trees play in sustaining our environment and enhancing the beauty of our surroundings. For several years, the Village has named a Tree of the Year and dedicated a variety to the Arboretum Garden Park located near the Montgomery Police Department at 11 Civic Center Dr. This year's tree, a Redbud, will be dedicated on Saturday, April 27 at 10A. The public is encouraged and welcome to join, and fifty lucky attendees will go home with a mature Redbud sapling of their own.
"We are excited to engage our young residents in celebrating Arbor Day through this poster contest," said Ed Pfaff, Forestry Supervisor and Beautification Committee Member for the Village of Montgomery. "The contest theme is 'Trees Are Good to Me,' promoting the idea that trees are essential for clean air, water, and stormwater management. This contest fosters creativity and educates children about the importance of preserving our urban forests for future generations."
Participation in the Arbor Day Poster Contest is open to all 3rd through 5th graders residing in the Village of Montgomery or attending an elementary school within the Village limits. Contestants are encouraged to illustrate the theme of "Trees Are Good to Me" through their artwork. Judges will review the submissions' creativity, originality, and relevance to the theme.
The winning posters, one for each grade level, will be featured in various community publications and displayed in a prominent location at Village Hall. In addition, the winner will receive a special recognition from the Village of Montgomery.
Key Details:
Who: 3rd, 4th, and 5th Graders
What: Arbor Day Poster Contest
Theme: Trees Are Good to Me
How to Enter: Submit artwork to Village Hall (200 N. River St., Montgomery, IL) by April 26 during regular business hours (Monday through Friday 8A-4:30P) or bring your artwork to the Arbor Day Tree Dedication on Saturday, April 27, at the Arboretum Garden Park (11 Civic Center Ave., Montgomery, IL) between 10-10:30A.
For more information about the Arbor Day Poster Contest or to view contest guidelines, visit montgomeryil.org/761/Arbor-Day or email Ed Pfaff at 630-896-9241 or email epfaff@montgomeryil.org.