Pennsylvania American Water Seeking Entries for Annual “Protect Our Watersheds” Art Contest

HERSHEY, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pennsylvania American Water announced today that entries are now being accepted for its 14th Annual “Protect Our Watersheds” Art Contest. All fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students in schools served by Pennsylvania American Water are eligible, as well as individual students who live in the company’s service area. The contest encourages students to tap into their artistic talents to express the importance of protecting Pennsylvania’s water resources.

Pennsylvania American Water is currently sending contest information and applications to teachers in nearly 500 schools in its service territory. Winners will be selected based on creative vision, artistic talent, understanding of watershed protection and the ability to communicate that understanding. As part of their entry, students must write a brief narrative on the personal impact of watershed protection.

“Students are learning about environmental stewardship and their role in protecting our resources every day,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape. “Through this contest, we’re encouraging students to creatively depict the importance of our watersheds and how they can protect them.”

The deadline for artwork submissions is March 30, 2016. Contest guidelines and entry forms are available on the company’s Web site at www.pennsylvaniaamwater.com, under “About Us,” and “Community Programs.”

In 2015, the company received more than 500 entries from students across the state. The grand prize winner was Nova Douglas from Jefferson County.

In total, six students will be recognized, with a first-, second- and third-place winner selected from eastern and western Pennsylvania. First-place winners will be rewarded with a $100 gift card to Barnes & Noble. Two second- and third-place winners will be awarded a $50 and $25 gift card, respectively.

In addition, the overall grand prize winner will have her/his artwork featured on “Bloomer” cards distributed by Pennsylvania American Water. Bloomer cards are seed-filled packets that, when planted and tended, produce a variety of wildflowers. All entrants will receive a Watershed Champion certificate. Awards will be presented in May as part of National Drinking Water Week activities.

Pennsylvania American Water is the largest water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.2 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 6,800 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in 47 states and parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.