Meghan Kaschner, a sixth grader from E.J. Martinez Elementary is the grand prize winner of the 12th Annual Children’s Water Conservation Poster Contest, the City of Santa Fe Water Conservation Office announced today.
The contest has a theme each year that encourages children and teachers to explore the value of water and conservation and presents an opportunity for teachers and parents to discuss with their children the importance of conserving Santa Fe’s limited supply of water and the simple ways to reduce water use everyday.
This year’s theme, “Water Connects Us,” addresses how humans, animals and plants are connected by water. The posters are judged on the creative expression of one point of view about the importance of saving water because it connects us with our neighbors, with our community, with nature, and with the world around us.
The winners of the poster contest receive prizes and will be featured in the 2016 calendar. The Grand Prize poster is displayed on the back of a city bus and on the calendar cover. The first and second place artwork for each grade in the contest will be featured in the city’s 2016 water conservation calendar. All 18 winners will receive a trophy and water conservation prize package in an awards ceremony at 5 p.m. during the March 25th City Council Meeting at City Hall.
Posters were submitted by students in first through sixth grades and were judged on water conservation message, creativity, originality and artistic design. Kaschner’s poster expresses the persuasive message that water is connected to life.
“Water conservation is a critical issue in Santa Fe and anyone of any age can be part of the solution. When we help children understand water as a resource, we get smarter water users,” said Rick Carpenter, City of Santa Fe Water Resources and Conservation Manager.
The judges included City Councilor Rivera, City Manager Brian Snyder, Public Utilities Director Nick Schiavo, Santa Fe Public School Art Coordinator, and City Water Division Staff, Bill Schneider, Stephanie Lopez, Cyndi Freitas, and Amanda Vigil.