On Thursday, April 21, Alachua County will recognize those students selected as winners in the County's ninth annual "Saving My Alachua" Environmental Art Contest. Winners from each grade will be recognized during a special ceremony event which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Jack Durrance Auditorium (Room 209) on the second floor of the Alachua County Administration Building (12 S.E. 1st Street, downtown Gainesville). This event is for the winners, their families, and participating schools.
The contest was open to all K-12 students in Alachua County and encouraged students to create artwork depicting their passion for the environment. Their artwork addressed many environmental topics, including water conservation, stormwater pollution, natural habitat protection, wilderness and wildlife protection, and proper disposal of toxic waste. Ribbons will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each k-8th grade category and a High School category. Selected winners will be featured in the 2023 Saving My Alachua Calendar, which will also contain tips on protecting the environment.
“From endangered species protection to pollution and safeguarding our water resources, all these topics are covered in the artwork selected this year, and it is a great reminder that these issues matter a great deal to our young residents,” said Alachua County Environmental Protection Department Director Stephen Hofstetter.
The artwork is on display in the hallways of the second floor of the County Administration Building.