Earth Science Week National Contests Announced

Alexandria, VA — The American Geological Institute is sponsoring three national contests as part of the 2006 Earth Science Week, “Be a Citizen Scientist!” which is held October 8-14.

The Photography contest, open to all ages, will focus on “Using and Studying Earth’s Resources.” Participants are encouraged to be creative and submit pictures of geoscientists studying or working with the earth’s natural resources or of people using these resources.

This year’s Visual Arts contest is “Earth Science in your Home Town.” Students in grades K-5 are encouraged to draw, paint or create a poster on any aspect of earth science that affects their local community. Artwork entries should be no larger than 24 x 36 inches.

Finally, students grades 5-9 are eligible to enter the Essay Contest “Be a Citizen Scientist.” Essays should be no longer than 500 words and are to highlight the ways every person can contribute to a better understanding of our planet.

The first place prize for each contest is $300. To learn more about these contests including how to enter, please visit http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests. Go to http://www.earthsciweek.org to learn about additional ways in which to become involved with Earth Science Week.