Conservation poster contest now under way

"DIG IT! The Secrets of Soil" is the theme for the 2009 Conservation Poster Contest sponsored by the Freehold Soil Conservation District and the NJ Association of Conservation Districts.

Students in grades 2-12 in Middlesex and Monmouth counties are encouraged to learn about the importance of soil. Almost all of the minerals and nutrients needed for life and to keep humans healthy come from fields, gardens, trees and pastures. Every fruit or vegetable gets its nutrients from the soil in which it grows.

By creating a poster students can highlight their artistic talents while exploring their connections to the natural world.

Prizes include $100, $75 and $50 cash awards. All first place district level posters will be submitted to the state level competition where one grand champion poster will be chosen and reproduced onto a pocket-folder and distributed state wide.

Entry forms are available at www.freeholdscd.org, by calling 732-683-8500 or by emailing info@freeholdscd.org. The entry deadline is March 6, 2009.