The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is now accepting submissions for artwork to help celebrate Arbor Day 2018. The Arbor Day Planning Committee is accepting original art and photography submissions to be selected as the 2018 New York State Arbor Day Poster.

DEC will accept submissions on behalf of the committee through December 31, 2017. The winning artist is honored at the annual State Arbor Day celebration, held on the last Friday in April.

The Arbor Day Committee includes the representatives from DEC, The Empire State Forest Foundation, NYS Arborist Association, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, and the International Paper Company.

“Arbor Day is celebrated nationally as a time to remind us of the valuable role trees play in our daily lives and in our environment,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Trees are a fundamental part of our ecosystem and help to improve air quality, reduce energy consumption, and beautify the landscape in New York's urban areas. I encourage anyone interested to participate in this year’s artwork contest to showcase one of our most prized natural resources.”

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Arbor Day is an excellent reminder of the importance of protecting our trees and preserving the integrity of our environment.  This annual artwork contest is a fun way to engage the community in Arbor Day celebrations and highlight the beauty of our landscapes, and the critical role trees play in our health and ecosystem.” 

Artwork submissions should be sent directly to arborday@dec.ny.gov.  The winning artwork will be replicated as the official 2018 New York State Arbor Day Poster and distributed at schools, libraries, government offices, nursery and landscaping businesses, and environmental organizations throughout the state.

For more information about the contest visit DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/108006.html or email arborday@dec.ny.gov. To obtain past New York State Arbor Day posters, contact any local DEC forestry office or call 518-402-9428.