BRUNSWICK — Elementary, middle and high school teachers are encouraged to have their students participate in the annual Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest, an integral part of the seventh annual national Endangered Species Day, celebrated on May 18.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and numerous conservation organizations will observe Endangered Species Day to recognize conservation efforts underway across the nation aimed at helping America’s imperiled species.

Started in 2006 by Congress, Endangered Species Day is a celebration of the nation’s rarest plant and animal species. The Youth Art Contest provides students from kindergarten to high school with an opportunity to learn about endangered species and express their knowledge and support through artwork. Young artists who are home schooled and participate in youth groups are also eligible to submit their art. Entries must be postmarked by March 15.

The Youth Art Contest will be judged by a prestigious panel of artists, photographers and conservationists. Winners will be chosen in four categories: K-Grade 2, Grades 3- 5, Grades 6- 8 and Grades 9-12, and will receive plaques and art supply gift packs. In addition, one grand prize winner will be honored with their name engraved on a special trophy and receive a round-trip flight to Washington, D.C., with one guardian, to attend a reception in May. The grand prize winner will also receive a special art lesson ( via Skype) from wellknown artist Wyland.

For more information, including judging criteria and an entry form, visit www.endangeredspeciesday.org.

news@timesrecord.com